tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-190320212017-12-13T07:12:34.474-07:00Earthly Musings - Wayne Ranney's Geology BlogGeology, landscape development, adventure and foreign travel, philosophical and scientific musings, photography and earthly explorationsWayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.comBlogger513125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-18820158080159608182017-12-02T14:10:00.000-07:002017-12-04T09:28:53.667-07:00The 2018 AAPG Geosciences in the Media AwardOn December 1, 2017 I received the following note from the President of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG):<br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 12pt;"><i><b><span style="color: yellow;">Dear Wayne,<o:p></o:p></span></b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 12pt;"><i><b><span style="color: yellow;">Good news!&nbsp;As president of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, I have the privilege of informing you that you are the&nbsp;2018&nbsp;Geosciences in the Media Award recipient from AAPG!&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 11pt;">In reviewing your body of work, including webpages and wonderful geology books, it is clear to me that AAPG is very proud to recognize you with this very well deserved recognition</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">.&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">There will be an article in the December issue of the Explorer. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">AAPG&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Headquarters will be following up soon.</span></span></b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 12pt;"><i><b><span style="color: yellow;">I am delighted that I&nbsp;will be the one to present the award to you at Opening Ceremony, at ACE in Salt Lake City, Sunday, May 20, 2018!&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 11pt;">Congratulations, well deserved, all the best!</span></span></b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 12pt;"><span style="color: yellow;"><i><b>Charles A. Sternbach,&nbsp;</b></i><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><i><b>AAPG President 2017-2018</b></i></span>&nbsp;</span></div><br />This award comes as an utter and complete surprise. However, it is a distinct honor to receive it. Many readers of my books, articles or this blog may know of my passion for sharing geology, landscapes and deep time with anyone <i>not</i> fortunate enough to have studied them formally. But I thought that I was working out here in the wilderness of tourism and adventure travel. I was unaware that such a prestigious organization was paying any attention at all to my earthly musings, books or articles. I thought that my work could hardly ever be recognized by those who make a living in academia or industry.<br /><br />I am deeply touched and honored to accept this award.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.aapg.org/publications/blogs/wwwupdate/article/Articleid/43052/announcing-aapgs-new-honorees" target="_blank">Here is a link</a>&nbsp;to the formal announcement that was published yesterday in the December issue of the AAPG Explorer. <a href="http://www.aapg.org/" target="_blank">Here is a link</a> to the AAPG home page.<br /><br />Those that know me well will not be surprised to learn that on the morning of the award ceremony (May 20, 2018), I will wake up in a hotel room in Lisbon Portugal. I will have just completed a <a href="https://www.tcsworldtravel.com/expedition/kingdoms-and-cultures-of-eurasia-by-private-jet/2018/april/itinerary" target="_blank">23-day Private Jet excursion</a> with TCS World Travel as a geologic lecturer. I will have lectured to a group of 54 people in Lithuania about the "Ice Age in the Baltic Sea," the "Tectonic Assembly of the Asian Supercontinent" while in Turkmenistan, and in Oman about the "The Natural History of Oil and Petroleum in the Middle-East." As that trip comes to a fitting end, I hope to catch a flight from Portugal to Salt Lake City and accept the award in person.<br /><br />Thanks to all of my loyal readers who have made this award possible!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DmRvEjOg2is/WiMWT7F5LRI/AAAAAAAAT-g/4yQxh90hTgIVT8ZVCgmgMvf0PcHzWQA5QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-12-01%2Bat%2B3.15.48%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1280" height="378" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DmRvEjOg2is/WiMWT7F5LRI/AAAAAAAAT-g/4yQxh90hTgIVT8ZVCgmgMvf0PcHzWQA5QCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-12-01%2Bat%2B3.15.48%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Description of the award in the AAPG Explorer, December, 2017</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-36073752959380195172017-11-19T19:32:00.000-07:002017-11-19T19:32:46.239-07:002 Billion...SecondsSometime this month, I passed a major milestone when I experienced my 2 billionth second. (Note: I was asleep at the time and did not note it specifically). I suspect&nbsp;it is my interest in geology and time in general that causes me to pay attention to such seemingly mundane things.<br /><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb-8IM2FuC4/Wg4Pyfr1rQI/AAAAAAAAT7E/h_RaVQoyP9o-qjV9yhd5q0IiiTzBX_ppgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-11-16%2Bat%2B3.22.18%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="213" data-original-width="320" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb-8IM2FuC4/Wg4Pyfr1rQI/AAAAAAAAT7E/h_RaVQoyP9o-qjV9yhd5q0IiiTzBX_ppgCLcBGAs/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-11-16%2Bat%2B3.22.18%2BPM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screen capture near the moment of my 2,000,000,000 second</td></tr></tbody></table><div>A few years ago I passed my 20,000 day and I threw a party for a small group of friends. I would say that the general feeling among them was they were happy to get together but less inspired for the reason of the get-together. "Why are you celebrating this Wayne?" was kind of the general consensus. Maybe they were just thinking that I have a piece of paper sitting around and that I had been putting marks on a piece of paper for 50 years! I don't know. But the secret to knowing how many seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years you've been alive can be found on numerous web site., I like <a href="http://www.mathcats.com/explore/age/calculator.html" target="_blank">this one</a>.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>We can't wait for our birthdays in our youth and reluctantly accept them as we age more and more. Everyone thinks it is right and proper to celebrate years and many people I know mark the 0 and the 5 birthdays with much reflection on reaching a milestone. So why not other increments of time.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>The chart above shows some significant numbers for me. I have also just recently passed my 33,333,333 minute! Wow!! And my 555,555 hour. (Which by the way seems like a very small number). 750 months wasn't too long ago.</div><div><br /></div><div>Go ahead - keep track of all your birthseconds, birthminutes, birthhours, birthdays, birthweeks, and birthmonths. We need more things to celebrate in our lives anyway.</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-31102897375046299542017-10-31T22:12:00.000-07:002017-11-01T05:23:03.174-07:00Morocco's Atlas Mountains Near MarrakechThe last stop on this whirlwind tour was Marrakech Morocco. Since I had visited the city many times before, I chose to go on a side trip with only two other passengers to the Atlas Mountains. It could not have ben a better choice.<br /><div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xqOzhqXBJ7w/WflF0erWxVI/AAAAAAAAT20/g3SjZvXldGs6xeItzMeKfOxqXJMznqhxwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="445" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xqOzhqXBJ7w/WflF0erWxVI/AAAAAAAAT20/g3SjZvXldGs6xeItzMeKfOxqXJMznqhxwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW230.JPG" width="440" /></a></div>This is our hotel, the amazing La Mamounia. It is considered one of the 10 best hotels in the world. The grounds are fabulous. Marrakech is located on a flat plain away from the mountains.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3glsmgozjzE/WflF0B7hGLI/AAAAAAAAT2w/C_189Orqpl4pisZpUTzgn-pJEAsRQeV1wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3glsmgozjzE/WflF0B7hGLI/AAAAAAAAT2w/C_189Orqpl4pisZpUTzgn-pJEAsRQeV1wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW231.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>But they are not far away and after traveling south a short distance (20 miles) sedimentary rocks are seen that have been uplifted into foothill terrain.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUukCMshPNs/WflIhABctuI/AAAAAAAAT4M/-MyAdhFXQ0sjx5_BBoC7Lts2HS8s9vN1gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5284%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUukCMshPNs/WflIhABctuI/AAAAAAAAT4M/-MyAdhFXQ0sjx5_BBoC7Lts2HS8s9vN1gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_5284%2Bcopy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>When the vehicle stoped at the end of the road, we embarked on a hike. In this tiny village were huge boulders that had come off the mountain front. Later on the hike, I would recognize their interesting origin.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzSD9NmCh4k/WflF0TS1giI/AAAAAAAAT24/AByfxE9io0I53LsT-yGq9SalB0aOjrbkACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzSD9NmCh4k/WflF0TS1giI/AAAAAAAAT24/AByfxE9io0I53LsT-yGq9SalB0aOjrbkACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW234.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We took one lane roads to the village (at about 5000 feet above sea level) and then hopped on the trail. This is where our 45 minute trek up to another small village began.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mbAwnB8l8-o/WflF0nIeDKI/AAAAAAAAT28/hejfpKAroGEHtUM5XtTa_zUQFH_UhngMgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="445" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mbAwnB8l8-o/WflF0nIeDKI/AAAAAAAAT28/hejfpKAroGEHtUM5XtTa_zUQFH_UhngMgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW235.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Along the way we saw walnut trees that have been plucked for the bark which is used to clean teeth. The scars from this activity were seen on many trees.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yIvAU_iQr8U/WflF1ThyXSI/AAAAAAAAT3A/KCEe_IB4lH4Jm8EJ57Wx0rws2301OQ1SACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yIvAU_iQr8U/WflF1ThyXSI/AAAAAAAAT3A/KCEe_IB4lH4Jm8EJ57Wx0rws2301OQ1SACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW236.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Rocks with large plagioclase crystals were evident. Note the area left of the lens cap with the many holes in it. This may be a vesicular volcanic rock that was erupted out with the plagioclase laths. These rocks are Precambrian in age and so many of the original volcanic textures are gone.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nXqIBblMlik/WflF1ytFn3I/AAAAAAAAT3E/64W_PfIz1rktiCfy95Ssv1YqjB6Kz5LlACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nXqIBblMlik/WflF1ytFn3I/AAAAAAAAT3E/64W_PfIz1rktiCfy95Ssv1YqjB6Kz5LlACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW237.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Looking at back at the village where we started the trek.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--eEyxV4OxC0/WflF2UPwxjI/AAAAAAAAT3I/Yc3QNakTl2MKyIJHM3nm183-KJOGTIQDQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--eEyxV4OxC0/WflF2UPwxjI/AAAAAAAAT3I/Yc3QNakTl2MKyIJHM3nm183-KJOGTIQDQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW238.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Villages up another side valley in the side of the mountains.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rAEeCSPnnyk/WflF2jLAAUI/AAAAAAAAT3M/DnTHamUSyYUvkSoBLK-Bcw64QUhZYoQKACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rAEeCSPnnyk/WflF2jLAAUI/AAAAAAAAT3M/DnTHamUSyYUvkSoBLK-Bcw64QUhZYoQKACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW239.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Approaching the destination, we see more huge boulders lying on the slope. What could they be?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UrSRXRPCkmI/WflF3MZTqiI/AAAAAAAAT3Q/7MMOB9ry5lgxhmkKmNhs_DvzW5MWXTopQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UrSRXRPCkmI/WflF3MZTqiI/AAAAAAAAT3Q/7MMOB9ry5lgxhmkKmNhs_DvzW5MWXTopQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW240.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the highest peak in this part of the High Atlas, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toubkal" target="_blank">Mt. Tabkoul</a> at an elevation of 13,671 feet. There are many trails in this part of the mountains and we saw many trekkers from Europe who were backpacking on multi-night trips.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3P0rfUDFhBA/WflF3xB-_-I/AAAAAAAAT3U/fR5wBM6EcBUaErXkT4UnONTFtKgWnWwDACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3P0rfUDFhBA/WflF3xB-_-I/AAAAAAAAT3U/fR5wBM6EcBUaErXkT4UnONTFtKgWnWwDACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW241.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We were welcomed to the village called Aremd, by the "mayor" and a woman who was making traditional bread.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iJKzW71-jv8/WflF4MJKyGI/AAAAAAAAT3Y/4WA8q_P2xCUjqx1zU8RE4q6Hxs2xKrurwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iJKzW71-jv8/WflF4MJKyGI/AAAAAAAAT3Y/4WA8q_P2xCUjqx1zU8RE4q6Hxs2xKrurwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW242.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>She pats out the dough into flat layers and then cooks on the metal pan above a mud oven The bread was delicious!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-79GESB5hQCQ/WflF4Wzi1UI/AAAAAAAAT3c/RM3NnmghQFAk_phiZb-q5GoBS8rt-ALTwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-79GESB5hQCQ/WflF4Wzi1UI/AAAAAAAAT3c/RM3NnmghQFAk_phiZb-q5GoBS8rt-ALTwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW243.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A musical serenade for our little group.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6x0Hwevm5k/WflF4gDPM_I/AAAAAAAAT3g/ep8OYuPv10AnvLY1-SZUIvTWT-hwdq9YgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6x0Hwevm5k/WflF4gDPM_I/AAAAAAAAT3g/ep8OYuPv10AnvLY1-SZUIvTWT-hwdq9YgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW244.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The "mayor" then performed the tea ritual, which was quite elaborate and took over 20 minutes with many pourings in and out of the cups of mint leaves.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0LJ9nZPqifM/WflF4-_7fHI/AAAAAAAAT3k/i3XYXlbTjgM4DI3ciL9LrQzig28hYUZiwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0LJ9nZPqifM/WflF4-_7fHI/AAAAAAAAT3k/i3XYXlbTjgM4DI3ciL9LrQzig28hYUZiwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW245.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>One of the pours of tea being made.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TluX5OVcKt8/WflF5C0ULYI/AAAAAAAAT3o/O6_C5pDo0qQNMoOGRblSlq_LbcNSibaRACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TluX5OVcKt8/WflF5C0ULYI/AAAAAAAAT3o/O6_C5pDo0qQNMoOGRblSlq_LbcNSibaRACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW246.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Many Moroccan meals are prepared in the tajin. Here we had a vegetable and a chicken tajin for lunch.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7u8IMhxc-Qs/WflURVjGHBI/AAAAAAAAT4c/84mbG9Blc6Aan6htSShrdZPl-xyKID23ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5398%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7u8IMhxc-Qs/WflURVjGHBI/AAAAAAAAT4c/84mbG9Blc6Aan6htSShrdZPl-xyKID23ACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_5398%2Bcopy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>While looking up to the mountains, I saw where the huge boulders might be coming from. The background slope in the far distance on the upper right was composed of lighter-colored rocks. However at the base of this slop[e was a darker pile of huge boulders that had a concordant surface with the same looking material behind the buildings and the top of the two poplar trees. It appeared to me that part of the upper mountain had broken away and came to rest at the foot of the mountain as a huge pile boulders. The stream has since dissected through the deposit after it was emplaced. Thus, the position of Aremd on a relatively flat surface was wholly due to catastrophic slope failure from the above. Some of the boulders have been dislodged again coming to rest in the lower village. I had our interpreter explain what I was seeing to the "mayor"but I think he was stymied at the part where I said 'a long time ago.'Amazing geology!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MSHQWWnggfs/Wfm7_lkEoCI/AAAAAAAAT4s/HIZPTFLqnvkKSZeB2uA1IhNjSpD6X1FYQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-11-01%2Bat%2B5.19.04%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1534" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MSHQWWnggfs/Wfm7_lkEoCI/AAAAAAAAT4s/HIZPTFLqnvkKSZeB2uA1IhNjSpD6X1FYQCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-11-01%2Bat%2B5.19.04%2BAM.png" width="640" /></a></div>A picture might help. The dashed blue line on the right is the boundary between the light-colored bedrock and the loose boulder deposit. The orange line shows the top of the debris field (dashed where the deposit is scoured out by the stream). The boulders originated within another rock unit higher up on the mountain to the right and splayed out into the valley.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4jJBJQpKD90/WflF5BW1HUI/AAAAAAAAT3s/VVFcxEBE4GQdzEzK7ulyv-NZWvflkH_UACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="445" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4jJBJQpKD90/WflF5BW1HUI/AAAAAAAAT3s/VVFcxEBE4GQdzEzK7ulyv-NZWvflkH_UACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW247.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>The village has an aspect of the Medieval and electricity has only been here for about 30 years.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--FWhIObn-94/WflF5kruuiI/AAAAAAAAT3w/BajfiAxN-m0i8dig-sYjXDvOi7kwkz-wwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--FWhIObn-94/WflF5kruuiI/AAAAAAAAT3w/BajfiAxN-m0i8dig-sYjXDvOi7kwkz-wwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW248.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It was apple harvest season and everywhere we looked we saw apple groves, people picking apples, gathering and packing apples, selling apples, giving us apples.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l_Vb2JN7HnU/WflF6Ojv_OI/AAAAAAAAT34/0qoUFFdMM_YjBW8Wlr9J77nO3qYx24oGACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="445" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l_Vb2JN7HnU/WflF6Ojv_OI/AAAAAAAAT34/0qoUFFdMM_YjBW8Wlr9J77nO3qYx24oGACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW249.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Rugs and flowers in Aremd.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ug9UOqrmw9o/WflF6v8vGUI/AAAAAAAAT30/-w9YSI-a9C0EDKbz60IRalUw8SOBq6fLACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ug9UOqrmw9o/WflF6v8vGUI/AAAAAAAAT30/-w9YSI-a9C0EDKbz60IRalUw8SOBq6fLACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW250.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This rock looked like rhyolite, more evidence of ancient volcanism.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_9hqbwcIEc/WflF7An75CI/AAAAAAAAT38/hVo_0Wv8h-UUxq8FyWMPHbAIx1lVBRQ-QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_9hqbwcIEc/WflF7An75CI/AAAAAAAAT38/hVo_0Wv8h-UUxq8FyWMPHbAIx1lVBRQ-QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW251.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Local nuts in a tajin-looking basket.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uhyh8Q125ds/WflF7VvAZcI/AAAAAAAAT4A/RV6spya_nHAqKdDMesXtCrqFLxVGB5EZACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="667" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uhyh8Q125ds/WflF7VvAZcI/AAAAAAAAT4A/RV6spya_nHAqKdDMesXtCrqFLxVGB5EZACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW252.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Fragrances everywhere is what I will remember of Morocco - and the stunning landscape.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>This concludes my journey Around the World. 32,000 miles in.the private jet (37,000 miles for me living in western North America). It was the trip of a lifetime but I get to do another one next April on a totally different itinerary. Thank you reading!</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-15789901213858612502017-10-31T19:08:00.001-07:002017-10-31T19:08:09.300-07:00The Fantastic Rosey Rocks of Petra and Wadi Rum, JordanNext stop on the big trip Around the World was the Lost City of Petra in Jordan.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xa9pbPJou5A/WfkRxleABYI/AAAAAAAAT00/0GJ3ED1FJugMFVWTuW37yZLp8X6PetL_QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xa9pbPJou5A/WfkRxleABYI/AAAAAAAAT00/0GJ3ED1FJugMFVWTuW37yZLp8X6PetL_QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW198.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the new entrance gate to the site, the first time I have seen it. It is a very nice approach compared to what it used to be. Admission to the site - $62 per person.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-va4xC_EE9dY/WfkRxsklqDI/AAAAAAAAT04/raQblEbAJgk7a2aaU_LU48xEPf-z7NfVACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="994" height="428" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-va4xC_EE9dY/WfkRxsklqDI/AAAAAAAAT04/raQblEbAJgk7a2aaU_LU48xEPf-z7NfVACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW199.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>As one starts down the trail, the red rocks begin to appear above the stream bed. The name of the rock unit here is the Rum Sandstone of Cambrian age (about 500 Ma).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-d5tM6YEW8/WfkRxn8HQEI/AAAAAAAAT0w/Fnig3sqi6No7jDlxWlEFOLE1_c8AIHNXgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-d5tM6YEW8/WfkRxn8HQEI/AAAAAAAAT0w/Fnig3sqi6No7jDlxWlEFOLE1_c8AIHNXgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW200.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>One immediately sees the carved sandstone as they enter the Siq - the name in Arabic for slot canyon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gv1X6Mblyrs/WfkRyT9ygNI/AAAAAAAAT08/3YocrBJl23oCYzJlqN_qP3WkBHqRxSctgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="994" height="428" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gv1X6Mblyrs/WfkRyT9ygNI/AAAAAAAAT08/3YocrBJl23oCYzJlqN_qP3WkBHqRxSctgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW201.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>To prevent flash floods from damaging their rock city, builders placed a dam across the bed of the Siq (a modern version is seen beneath the white building). This diverted flood waters toward a 300 foot culvert carved through solid sandstone and into another nearby drainage. The sites development began around 200 BC and lasted about 400 years until 200 AD.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g2yPZL-f0nA/WfkRy-w1WrI/AAAAAAAAT1A/l1mHDCvAsFEA45Xezh7fudgKLg2NuAsNQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g2yPZL-f0nA/WfkRy-w1WrI/AAAAAAAAT1A/l1mHDCvAsFEA45Xezh7fudgKLg2NuAsNQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW202.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Entering the narrow part of the Siq.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tElG8huc3ps/WfkRza2HfPI/AAAAAAAAT1E/520Ai67s0Mwqj3GSi51qtXvnlSol5bpJQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tElG8huc3ps/WfkRza2HfPI/AAAAAAAAT1E/520Ai67s0Mwqj3GSi51qtXvnlSol5bpJQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW203.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Note the domestic water channels at eye level carved into the slot canyon walls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qj7XXem46Go/WfkR0FVN8GI/AAAAAAAAT1I/q27tpFGeSn0X9JRzFgmIqybh8OVeIAD0gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qj7XXem46Go/WfkR0FVN8GI/AAAAAAAAT1I/q27tpFGeSn0X9JRzFgmIqybh8OVeIAD0gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW204.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Rum Sandstone is riddled with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liesegang_rings_(geology)" target="_blank">Liesegang banding</a>, concentrations of iron that formed when groundwater fronts (prior to canyon cutting) dissolved iron in one part and pushed it downstream into other parts where it concentrated as layers irrespective of depositional bedding. Here, dark colored iron bands frame a water channel in the canyon walls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A-BDT1ur1Wk/WfkR0RTmZFI/AAAAAAAAT1M/sj7hxoP7fG8kFM5O8svYIbQt9PlSrNpPQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="967" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A-BDT1ur1Wk/WfkR0RTmZFI/AAAAAAAAT1M/sj7hxoP7fG8kFM5O8svYIbQt9PlSrNpPQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW206.JPG" width="440" /></a></div>The slot canyon is about 300 feet deep and at its narrowest part is only 10 feet wide.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdbINAsQshA/WfkR1E-bg6I/AAAAAAAAT1Q/-1zXaZDswrE2kvB7c3k_sl5KrqZMp_sgQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdbINAsQshA/WfkR1E-bg6I/AAAAAAAAT1Q/-1zXaZDswrE2kvB7c3k_sl5KrqZMp_sgQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW207.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>These remnants of a carving along the canyon wall shows a man leading a camel (the camel feet are in the center and left of photograph). The carvings appear to have been scoured by flood water, likely after the city fell into ruins.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcVzW6agbbs/WfkR14f2OrI/AAAAAAAAT1U/5AJAxkIDHo0A-xAZDITEe_BrZy6i_4nBgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcVzW6agbbs/WfkR14f2OrI/AAAAAAAAT1U/5AJAxkIDHo0A-xAZDITEe_BrZy6i_4nBgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW208.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the end of the Siq as it enters the larger stream. I doubt that many photographs of this spectacular end to the kilometer-long slot canyon are taken because...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bigsGq6IJdU/WfkR2mh7DzI/AAAAAAAAT1Y/Q4Ib9ARXRHcAVOlYdbZhqxXKqA6nt4-lwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bigsGq6IJdU/WfkR2mh7DzI/AAAAAAAAT1Y/Q4Ib9ARXRHcAVOlYdbZhqxXKqA6nt4-lwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW209.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>...when one turns the other way, they see one of the most famous and magnificent mausoleums in the whole complex, a carved structure known as the Treasury. All of these buildings were constructed as mausoleums for the rich and it is presumed that the larger the mausoleum, the richer the benefactor.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KHLitNWYY-I/WfkR3Omt_NI/AAAAAAAAT1c/irIAn10Es50Pj3fqsTtVeKlXMgzjkZLBQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KHLitNWYY-I/WfkR3Omt_NI/AAAAAAAAT1c/irIAn10Es50Pj3fqsTtVeKlXMgzjkZLBQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW211.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Close-up of the Liesegang banding in a canyon wall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qRhSKqyWTu0/WfkR3ubjqEI/AAAAAAAAT1g/_hgYLFdK6SEgGs1z8LLqPNLOB7ic10mzwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qRhSKqyWTu0/WfkR3ubjqEI/AAAAAAAAT1g/_hgYLFdK6SEgGs1z8LLqPNLOB7ic10mzwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW212.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A theater was also carved into the sandstone. The theater was carved in the 1st century AD, before the Roman occupation. However, the similarity of the architectural design however suggests a sharing of ideas between the Nabateans and the Romans.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZO21W133tM/WfkR33plF4I/AAAAAAAAT1k/_PN4U_SOGNYI84CL87OQlGAJmbipm3cJACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZO21W133tM/WfkR33plF4I/AAAAAAAAT1k/_PN4U_SOGNYI84CL87OQlGAJmbipm3cJACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW213.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>This magnificent structure was a very large mausoleum. Look at the amount of material removed from the natural slope on the left. The sandstone is relatively soft but hey, rock is rock.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MQGDS1BFmZc/WfkR4HL44PI/AAAAAAAAT1o/rvec25HPeDQvnEmcgvTJtJFu_N68zL7bgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MQGDS1BFmZc/WfkR4HL44PI/AAAAAAAAT1o/rvec25HPeDQvnEmcgvTJtJFu_N68zL7bgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW214.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Natural light fills the mausoleum. Note the spectacular Liesegang banding on the roof.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1E-DDIQPOxc/WfkR4UHCZRI/AAAAAAAAT1s/-xh77mmpvJEDmSttpwcu7oGGPAu4V64xQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1E-DDIQPOxc/WfkR4UHCZRI/AAAAAAAAT1s/-xh77mmpvJEDmSttpwcu7oGGPAu4V64xQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW215.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The tombs were raided of their contents likely quite soon after the site was abandoned. Although Petra is often called the Lost City in the Western world, the local population never lost sight of the ancient city.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6BmpL8TF8jM/WfkR4mgUUAI/AAAAAAAAT1w/5zSEfltpIFEFZLT_At3FdNxpuchjLPtVgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6BmpL8TF8jM/WfkR4mgUUAI/AAAAAAAAT1w/5zSEfltpIFEFZLT_At3FdNxpuchjLPtVgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW216.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On May 19, 363 AD, Reqem (as the Nabateans called their Rose City) was destroyed by a massive earthquake. Here a column lies prone - it may or may not have fallen during the quake. A short article on the quake can be found <a href="https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/petra/the-great-earthquake/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PJaXJ2ZfBjI/WfkR40ufkfI/AAAAAAAAT10/CI1L_WWK3PYli6jgmIX6LLp_IDkAZ7z9gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="598" data-original-width="869" height="440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PJaXJ2ZfBjI/WfkR40ufkfI/AAAAAAAAT10/CI1L_WWK3PYli6jgmIX6LLp_IDkAZ7z9gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW217.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>After lunch we walked one mile and 700 feet up to the Monastery, another great mausoleum but this time located out of the canyon floor and on a high ridge.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d1qTiVn13wQ/WfkR5PaM3jI/AAAAAAAAT14/dDGROpTdKnwd4WNNLVMYITTEzg357vNnwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d1qTiVn13wQ/WfkR5PaM3jI/AAAAAAAAT14/dDGROpTdKnwd4WNNLVMYITTEzg357vNnwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW218.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The view to the northwest is toward the Dead Sea rift valley. The Jordanian flag flies in the breeze.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TBpj7FKnnQo/WfkR5a9l13I/AAAAAAAAT18/XX2V-tFLwNgjmidXzBAjgMUPL0txjYdiwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TBpj7FKnnQo/WfkR5a9l13I/AAAAAAAAT18/XX2V-tFLwNgjmidXzBAjgMUPL0txjYdiwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW219.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A few years ago, I noticed that the red sandstone rests on dark colored Precambrian crystalline rocks. In the American Southwest this contact is known as the Great Unconformity and one could rightly use that term here (and elsewhere in the world). I have seen such a contact in Cape Town South Africa, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Antarctica.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JbcBI-HMLxE/WfkR6DIfEBI/AAAAAAAAT2A/mCVjnQOl11URiG4VFWDC38n7WO61PbUYgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JbcBI-HMLxE/WfkR6DIfEBI/AAAAAAAAT2A/mCVjnQOl11URiG4VFWDC38n7WO61PbUYgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW220.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A photo with the 300mm telephoto lens reveals some interesting geology. In the upper left background, white Cretaceous-age limestone has been faulted down and rotated into the Dead Sea rift. The amount of displacement is thousands of feet. I never noticed it before but with the telephoto view, another rock unit can be seen located between the red sandstone above and the dark crystalline rocks below. It is the vertically jointed massive unit in the photo center and it is composed of<br />late Precambrian rhyolite and andesite.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vaiGdnky2hk/WfkR6KaIZ6I/AAAAAAAAT2E/sBVkajlu8eQvwwxUrZah1KAAV7o0Swi_wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vaiGdnky2hk/WfkR6KaIZ6I/AAAAAAAAT2E/sBVkajlu8eQvwwxUrZah1KAAV7o0Swi_wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW221.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>A juniper tree frames the view.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qCyidwUMpfE/WfkR6fG41UI/AAAAAAAAT2I/_85l6wJ-XZsMbvfTI-SxxGzpYVggFtkmQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qCyidwUMpfE/WfkR6fG41UI/AAAAAAAAT2I/_85l6wJ-XZsMbvfTI-SxxGzpYVggFtkmQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW223.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On the way back down I took a camel ride through the city. This completes my journey to Petra in 2017.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_x2CKIf9vks/WfkR6jQcqdI/AAAAAAAAT2M/j_ehZRfgsaAfhkppv7XbKB1d-m5IooH6gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="760" height="452" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_x2CKIf9vks/WfkR6jQcqdI/AAAAAAAAT2M/j_ehZRfgsaAfhkppv7XbKB1d-m5IooH6gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW224.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The following day our group visited Wadi Rum, a location made famous when featured in movies such as <i>Lawrence of Arabia</i> and <i>Indiana Jones - The Last Crusade</i>. The Great Unconformity is visible in this view at the center of the photo.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJ2xbQV8jcQ/WfkR6yTGKGI/AAAAAAAAT2Q/2VASZcSk0YMItBJGeOK1Ej40fMQ1wsheQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJ2xbQV8jcQ/WfkR6yTGKGI/AAAAAAAAT2Q/2VASZcSk0YMItBJGeOK1Ej40fMQ1wsheQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW225.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Rum Sandstone takes on familiar shapes to anyone schooled in the southwest deserts of Arizona and Utah.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nkYEffvsmZ4/WfkR7feoYpI/AAAAAAAAT2U/oCyeu4NhYp4jM6NRQG3C6loE2XiIeIiJwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nkYEffvsmZ4/WfkR7feoYpI/AAAAAAAAT2U/oCyeu4NhYp4jM6NRQG3C6loE2XiIeIiJwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW226.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I have never seen such well-developed <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Case_hardening_of_rocks" target="_blank">case-hardening</a>&nbsp;(and related core softening) in a sandstone. It forms when groundwater dissolves cement in the interior of the sandstone, then groundwater brings the solution to the rock surface where it evaporates, leaving the cement on the wall and making it harder.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugdRFomQekM/WfkR7sEhnKI/AAAAAAAAT2Y/ddGnBwxh5OkFZJThV_INxhI5tyX3FeB3ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugdRFomQekM/WfkR7sEhnKI/AAAAAAAAT2Y/ddGnBwxh5OkFZJThV_INxhI5tyX3FeB3ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW227.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Entering a slot canyon in Wadi Rum.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vm73VMycU2s/WfkR77-EmKI/AAAAAAAAT2c/ukLG-_eWKeEFpQpJg1xVAAKQpWmVVYHzACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vm73VMycU2s/WfkR77-EmKI/AAAAAAAAT2c/ukLG-_eWKeEFpQpJg1xVAAKQpWmVVYHzACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW228.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The petroglyphs take forms not familiar to New World archaeologists. An old Arabic script before dots is also present in these carvings, dating to about 2000 years ago.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6ToWTMnDB4/WfkR8PiePVI/AAAAAAAAT2g/uWpOGBV6lUwJZOjm8OZi3AZpnVBrxhLnQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="743" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6ToWTMnDB4/WfkR8PiePVI/AAAAAAAAT2g/uWpOGBV6lUwJZOjm8OZi3AZpnVBrxhLnQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW229.JPG" width="474" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A geologist had obviously been here to take oriented cores from the iron-rich rocks. These were taken to determine the magnetic orientation of the iron, which can help determine the latitude of the rock during deposition.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The final stop on this trip is the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-89077844507230716322017-10-31T10:20:00.001-07:002017-10-31T10:20:16.279-07:00Flying Over Mt. Kilimanjaro, the Nile River, and the Red SeaAh - a nice four flight without having to give a lecture and going over interesting terrain! Cloudless desert skies round this as a perfect flight!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dEMqhU8Jehg/WfiiL3HBXBI/AAAAAAAATzI/BQNl4-Oj-OsOB1G6ty2g_Ilj_QqYi2RFwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dEMqhU8Jehg/WfiiL3HBXBI/AAAAAAAATzI/BQNl4-Oj-OsOB1G6ty2g_Ilj_QqYi2RFwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW192.JPG" width="640" /></a>On the ground at Mt. Kilimanjaro International Airport after our one hour flight from Serengeti. The temperature was about 85 degrees here at 4,500 feet and 3º south of the equator.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwyNWyg3U9M/WfiiRx7TYWI/AAAAAAAATzM/ks1OlNVZF-kVWMdRHdcqdqC4ESlDalI1gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwyNWyg3U9M/WfiiRx7TYWI/AAAAAAAATzM/ks1OlNVZF-kVWMdRHdcqdqC4ESlDalI1gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW178.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Beautiful blue skies too as we boarded our jet. For the second half of this flight, I have been sitting in row 1, starboard side.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZTWaQWICBso/WfiiRxys40I/AAAAAAAATzQ/P7Z_wtZiZKs0DMGuoHbjjubQ8wZUMafCACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZTWaQWICBso/WfiiRxys40I/AAAAAAAATzQ/P7Z_wtZiZKs0DMGuoHbjjubQ8wZUMafCACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW180.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Once in the air, the pilot radioed for permission to do a scenic flight over Mt. Kilimanjaro and was granted the request. Unfortunately, clouds covered most of the mountain.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T02jrVstjzs/WfiiSEfmfNI/AAAAAAAATzU/kBwfWJJAiRsNa3yQb0AOrSopwgQcIsPGQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T02jrVstjzs/WfiiSEfmfNI/AAAAAAAATzU/kBwfWJJAiRsNa3yQb0AOrSopwgQcIsPGQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW179.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>But every now and then while circling the giant volcano, we could see the Lemosho Route traveling along the southern base of the volcano. If you look closely in this shot, you will notice small orange tents pitched in the cleared area. We may have camped here in 2014 on our ascent of the mountain.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hgned7l8y_k/WfimaiYKEnI/AAAAAAAAT0U/M60yy0S6Hg0MoFmdzp7_8D_Iqac6PqyLACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hgned7l8y_k/WfimaiYKEnI/AAAAAAAAT0U/M60yy0S6Hg0MoFmdzp7_8D_Iqac6PqyLACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW193.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the Blue Nile River just upstream from Khartoum, Sudan. Currently there is a huge dam being built on the Blue Nile in Ethiopia and it will be completed next year. Read about the project <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Ethiopian_Renaissance_Dam" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tIr3djWJkg/WfiiSUQ1TLI/AAAAAAAATzY/S_6DEhrY0xgFFAcX5EJPrEEbXLlnCPqdwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tIr3djWJkg/WfiiSUQ1TLI/AAAAAAAATzY/S_6DEhrY0xgFFAcX5EJPrEEbXLlnCPqdwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW181.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the Nasser Reservoir, the body of water inundated behind the Aswan Dam on the Nile River. This is very close to the border with Ethiopia. The scenery was very much like that seen near the Powell Reservoir in the American Southwest.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rdIuoVAcdX4/WfimaeyJ9SI/AAAAAAAAT0M/6ZFk0XVOz_8db5kVotTAhRWBE5ubNKVNgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rdIuoVAcdX4/WfimaeyJ9SI/AAAAAAAAT0M/6ZFk0XVOz_8db5kVotTAhRWBE5ubNKVNgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW194.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Another shot of the shore of Nasser Reservoir showing significant mountain terrain that itself is being inundated - with wind-blown sand (lighter orange material on the mountain slopes). It must be incredible to be on the ground here and see this - if you can get there!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s4a6gPALXrg/WfiiSimghsI/AAAAAAAATzc/dIdD1Sdse4wrue6GLUMRl0IKCzPyz9haACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s4a6gPALXrg/WfiiSimghsI/AAAAAAAATzc/dIdD1Sdse4wrue6GLUMRl0IKCzPyz9haACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW182.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A poor, long-distance shot of the Aswan Dam across the Nile River. The Nile flows left (north) and the Nasser Reservoir is on the right (to the south). The last time the Nile River flooded freely was June, 1964 when the gates of this dam closed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tu_91IVWzvc/WfiiTL9BX1I/AAAAAAAATzk/Nwq3As6LY8MOFrubC7I6iAI-uWp_8EPiACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tu_91IVWzvc/WfiiTL9BX1I/AAAAAAAATzk/Nwq3As6LY8MOFrubC7I6iAI-uWp_8EPiACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW183.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The irrigated banks of the Nile River below Aswan. Note the desert lands outside of the rivers floodplain.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m3Oqbywaerk/WfimaxkVxiI/AAAAAAAAT0Y/4_2WvBuHemI5NqIBB7SGHawKZ0be7RihgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m3Oqbywaerk/WfimaxkVxiI/AAAAAAAAT0Y/4_2WvBuHemI5NqIBB7SGHawKZ0be7RihgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW196.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Now we are flying across the storied Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. Looks like the Mojave Desert to me.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6i36GXonyIc/WfiiS0yZKtI/AAAAAAAATzg/zxPbZlWzfnEodJxb47vuDCwx5_n_QiD1ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6i36GXonyIc/WfiiS0yZKtI/AAAAAAAATzg/zxPbZlWzfnEodJxb47vuDCwx5_n_QiD1ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW184.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>After crossing the peninsula, we arrived at the edge of the shoreline in Egypt.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mvRYhPnQgAM/WfiiTSwcWOI/AAAAAAAATzo/lPN2OIaaOKgOcUqynjLES4mivVGnad3kACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mvRYhPnQgAM/WfiiTSwcWOI/AAAAAAAATzo/lPN2OIaaOKgOcUqynjLES4mivVGnad3kACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW185.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the most famous of the resorts at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula,&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharm_El_Sheikh" target="_blank">Sharm El Sheikh</a>. It began as a fishing village and was transformed into a naval base for the Egyptian Navy in the 1950's. It is now a tourist destination and the diving is said to be quite spectacular.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SIIjKAWlVc8/WfiiThx8SyI/AAAAAAAATzs/WNwIJIx7AkAp0xAnSTYY0XI7phrfKaNYACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SIIjKAWlVc8/WfiiThx8SyI/AAAAAAAATzs/WNwIJIx7AkAp0xAnSTYY0XI7phrfKaNYACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW186.JPG" width="640" /></a>These islands in the Gulf of Aqaba are located directly across from Sharm El Sheikh but are in the country of Saudi Arabia. Note the very shallow reefs which I'm sure are excellent places for snorkeling and diving.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ9eNV96w_E/WfiiT9QR-KI/AAAAAAAATzw/M5A2BZt2TeoB7yaCHGMlgQVOojI9kYKZgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ9eNV96w_E/WfiiT9QR-KI/AAAAAAAATzw/M5A2BZt2TeoB7yaCHGMlgQVOojI9kYKZgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW187.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>More desert, more sea in Saudi Arabia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-37jD837K89M/WfiiUPUoquI/AAAAAAAATz0/QJop-I6RRtQ646qPeW_GiPSxKYPQdZrQwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-37jD837K89M/WfiiUPUoquI/AAAAAAAATz0/QJop-I6RRtQ646qPeW_GiPSxKYPQdZrQwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW188.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Google Earth image of this stretch of Saudi coastline shows absolutely nothing named.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QgWJwWzdB2s/WfiiUUBT-sI/AAAAAAAATz4/zDxxSaP5kpkfsZjjcd_YB-ZMtrQcf09iwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="881" height="484" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QgWJwWzdB2s/WfiiUUBT-sI/AAAAAAAATz4/zDxxSaP5kpkfsZjjcd_YB-ZMtrQcf09iwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW189.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We entered Jordanian airspace near the northern terminus of the Gulf of Aqaba. I have seen these black dikes, which admittedly look like tilted strata but isareactually black basaltic dikes intruding into lighter colored Precambrian granite, which is a part of the Arabian shield.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H98y08OuxEI/WfiiUvquZ9I/AAAAAAAATz8/ELZU6Zy2yv8perUpCvdJJvmeNiTW0H1WQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H98y08OuxEI/WfiiUvquZ9I/AAAAAAAATz8/ELZU6Zy2yv8perUpCvdJJvmeNiTW0H1WQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW190.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We turned to the east and got a great view of the Wadi Rum area, which I will show in the next post from ground level. In this aerial shot however, note the darker substrate beneath the orange sandstone - this is the Great Unconformity where Paleozoic rocks lie atop Precambrian crystalline rocks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xy59rcOEn58/WfiiU8wQ8MI/AAAAAAAAT0A/WDWGApvUBA83iGzBBZXO3BLi_hj_WV_IACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xy59rcOEn58/WfiiU8wQ8MI/AAAAAAAAT0A/WDWGApvUBA83iGzBBZXO3BLi_hj_WV_IACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW191.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Jordanian city of Aqaba at the head of the Gulf of Aqaba. Three counties are visible from here, Jordan in the foreground where the city is located, Israel in the center, and Egypt at the far top of the photo.<br /><br />My next posting will be from the ground in Petra and Wadi Rum.Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-44950910778673669782017-10-30T13:32:00.002-07:002017-10-30T13:32:15.928-07:00The Spectacular Serengeti LandscapeOne of the joys of these trips is flying over interesting places. I had to give a lecture as we left Agra and could not look out the windows but it didn't matter as we were flying over the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. We finally saw land on the coast of Kenya in East Africa.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zb1LLmeRhcI/Wfd6A1c2V9I/AAAAAAAATxg/pzb1UMxzOGsDg8W8dEsy7TjawsOyXr5nwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zb1LLmeRhcI/Wfd6A1c2V9I/AAAAAAAATxg/pzb1UMxzOGsDg8W8dEsy7TjawsOyXr5nwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW155.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>This is the port city of Mombasa in Kenya. I have yet to visit this pace but when I was in college a local band played a song in which the chorus repeated the word&nbsp;<b style="font-style: italic;">MOM-BA-SA. </b>I've wanted to&nbsp;visit ever since.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VZz7aRdPZzQ/Wfd6A7TrPYI/AAAAAAAATxc/1A5KjMM9F30IU0Nz3kUqp-c9bQSe5sFGQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="806" data-original-width="1000" height="514" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VZz7aRdPZzQ/Wfd6A7TrPYI/AAAAAAAATxc/1A5KjMM9F30IU0Nz3kUqp-c9bQSe5sFGQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW156.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is Mt. Kilimanjaro with a giant thunderhead looming over it. You can see the small glacier on its summit. See my posting of our summit day on top of Mt. Kilimanjaro <a href="https://earthly-musings.blogspot.com/2014/08/running-out-of-ground-trekking-to-roof_26.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qYholV1q3qg/Wfd6Apepe3I/AAAAAAAATxY/NyGcHpYxv2gpuTSTu65O-8zmA6TxnS6MQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qYholV1q3qg/Wfd6Apepe3I/AAAAAAAATxY/NyGcHpYxv2gpuTSTu65O-8zmA6TxnS6MQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW157.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sunrise in Serengeti National Park on October 13, 2017. After landing in Arusha, we took a small aircraft for a one-hour flight to the landing strip at Serengeti. We got on the ground just in time too as a huge downpour lasting 2 or more hours inundated the northern part of the park. While driving one hour to the Four Seasons Lodge, hail pelleted our safari jeep. The runoff was spectacular. This was the sunrise that followed the deluge.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XK-UeZ0Lr2Y/Wfd6BRol9bI/AAAAAAAATxk/S9ImKxM6q9ELLin2ubC1K08Mh2yMRPzLQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XK-UeZ0Lr2Y/Wfd6BRol9bI/AAAAAAAATxk/S9ImKxM6q9ELLin2ubC1K08Mh2yMRPzLQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW158.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I was up for sunrise at 4:30 AM so that we could go ballooning over the landscape!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yiImlVRZPGA/Wfd6Bse31TI/AAAAAAAATxo/3Ixrl23CKIQKFsxTsAQyKvJJL2WyUTeJQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yiImlVRZPGA/Wfd6Bse31TI/AAAAAAAATxo/3Ixrl23CKIQKFsxTsAQyKvJJL2WyUTeJQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW159.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Note the glow of the burner in this photo of one of our five aircraft.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wcWcWFd6RIE/Wfd6B2jMPoI/AAAAAAAATxs/qTzuAoUSPug75xl5XLEeoHObH2JBZ7R2ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wcWcWFd6RIE/Wfd6B2jMPoI/AAAAAAAATxs/qTzuAoUSPug75xl5XLEeoHObH2JBZ7R2ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW160.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Reflections in the hippo pool. Note the dozens of hippo's in this pool.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOgclnuDB1w/Wfd6CKiU0iI/AAAAAAAATxw/rl2dfjIDFjIr0yH_ax7X2sSrOgq84a4qgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOgclnuDB1w/Wfd6CKiU0iI/AAAAAAAATxw/rl2dfjIDFjIr0yH_ax7X2sSrOgq84a4qgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW161.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Since the temperatures were so cool from the previous days rain, some of the hippos felt comfortable enough to emerge from the pool and we were able to see them from the unusual vantage from above.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vTzJoEf4M2Q/Wfd6CuSkeJI/AAAAAAAATx0/V5n99NHFMfkYTk1OU6lYObk09hkST_0pQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vTzJoEf4M2Q/Wfd6CuSkeJI/AAAAAAAATx0/V5n99NHFMfkYTk1OU6lYObk09hkST_0pQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW162.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>A small stream lined with Seronera palm trees as seen from above.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kU_XC03MF2w/Wfd6C17mOhI/AAAAAAAATx4/gJFpZnrU88Y7szKV0VsTI6Ugi57_5d8ngCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kU_XC03MF2w/Wfd6C17mOhI/AAAAAAAATx4/gJFpZnrU88Y7szKV0VsTI6Ugi57_5d8ngCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW163.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Ballooning is much more fun than it might appear at first and is a very interesting craft. The elevation of the balloon controls the speed and direction of movement. Here our balloons are almost touching the ground as they catch a desired wind direction. At other times we rose to 1,500 feet or more to move faster and farther. This was my second time ballooning in Africa and you can see a post&nbsp;<a href="https://earthly-musings.blogspot.com/2013/10/southern-african-safari-part-1.html" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;from my first balloon experience in Namibia in 2013).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rumZMAFDM_Y/Wfd6DK20eAI/AAAAAAAATx8/XtN6pTS584k9QeZl7mztYbo9L_gGIZzFwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rumZMAFDM_Y/Wfd6DK20eAI/AAAAAAAATx8/XtN6pTS584k9QeZl7mztYbo9L_gGIZzFwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW164.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Skimming the umbrella acacia trees on the Serengeti, which in the local Masai language means "Endless Plain."<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-84tIMKuWYE8/Wfd6DnfABCI/AAAAAAAATyE/pcniqg90tm4rgbSHyRaW5VYZMshNeilIwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-84tIMKuWYE8/Wfd6DnfABCI/AAAAAAAATyE/pcniqg90tm4rgbSHyRaW5VYZMshNeilIwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW165.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>These passenger baskets are large and hold 16 people plus the pilot.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eR1hwSsUJu0/Wfd6DYBiLHI/AAAAAAAATyA/ok0pV5C5yNsvqmmxhVUckv30v-YjzIxigCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eR1hwSsUJu0/Wfd6DYBiLHI/AAAAAAAATyA/ok0pV5C5yNsvqmmxhVUckv30v-YjzIxigCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW166.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A high traverse over the Serengeti.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rp_vylR46Ns/Wfd6DiWlB2I/AAAAAAAATyI/rByVWYsRXfMgtRxamPxIt6-SW1KhLYXwQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rp_vylR46Ns/Wfd6DiWlB2I/AAAAAAAATyI/rByVWYsRXfMgtRxamPxIt6-SW1KhLYXwQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW167.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Every balloon ride ends in a Champaign breakfast somewhere out on the vast plain.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9FMIFNMQhIo/Wfd6EMkv-UI/AAAAAAAATyM/FMmoGH5tx_QoiPZxPhVFR60VzoOXD09lQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9FMIFNMQhIo/Wfd6EMkv-UI/AAAAAAAATyM/FMmoGH5tx_QoiPZxPhVFR60VzoOXD09lQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW168.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Next, it was time for a ground safari. It was a spectacular day with puffy clouds, perfect temperatures, and well-watered grass. This was the short rainy season and the 2 inches of rain the night before would have the grass looking green after our three day visit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zuDnDFDhgZo/Wfd6EbVVZVI/AAAAAAAATyQ/2B8H3CmEANcUWr63-nVORZrHQeaqn-Q0gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zuDnDFDhgZo/Wfd6EbVVZVI/AAAAAAAATyQ/2B8H3CmEANcUWr63-nVORZrHQeaqn-Q0gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW169.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>We saw more giraffes this time than I have ever seen before. The rains freed the animals from congregating around shrinking watering holes (it hadn't rained since April). This dispersed them to a certain degree but also made them more active. The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giraffe" target="_blank">giraffe</a> (genus <i>Giraffa</i> with three species) is an amazing animal that is considered vulnerable in its conservation status, due to shrinking habitat. Farms and corn fields are often found right on the boundaries of these national parks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RpAX9WOaq1k/Wfd6EqbJBAI/AAAAAAAATyU/KcfnhvmMqoQ2hk9BzbaUv8ROoO3viEpEgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RpAX9WOaq1k/Wfd6EqbJBAI/AAAAAAAATyU/KcfnhvmMqoQ2hk9BzbaUv8ROoO3viEpEgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW170.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We got excellent views of a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheetah" target="_blank">cheetah</a> (<i>Acinonyx jubatus</i>) who had just finished a meal of impala. This is our planets fastest animal and in a sprint achieves 70 mph. It is one of the smaller large cats at an average weight of 100 to 125 lbs. I saw very few lions this time but other vehicles got better views.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JfEk_S_Et-8/Wfd6EigIblI/AAAAAAAATyY/JLETovmp-OAa6eUb1Qk1B2IDCd7DMA4_wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="731" height="462" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JfEk_S_Et-8/Wfd6EigIblI/AAAAAAAATyY/JLETovmp-OAa6eUb1Qk1B2IDCd7DMA4_wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW171.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the red-billed horn-bill (genus <i>Tockus</i> with five species who some consider only sub-species). The colorful and rich palette of birds in Africa are as varied and satisfying as the larger game.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvPSd7mkUqo/Wfd6FMVmPZI/AAAAAAAATyc/qlCcIxx8qacGtPKdML7Mj4_-YTqZ3DLPgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvPSd7mkUqo/Wfd6FMVmPZI/AAAAAAAATyc/qlCcIxx8qacGtPKdML7Mj4_-YTqZ3DLPgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW172.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Afternoon thunderstorm on the Serengeti.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dxv5h53wL4o/Wfd6FalkKLI/AAAAAAAATyg/qsZ-lWNEwlMjIJmd3ShOHbW3Mej4WBiAACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dxv5h53wL4o/Wfd6FalkKLI/AAAAAAAATyg/qsZ-lWNEwlMjIJmd3ShOHbW3Mej4WBiAACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW173.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We encountered a family of 11 elephants resting under a single tree on the plain.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iiWwiBOBpho/Wfd6FgCz-BI/AAAAAAAATyk/CAWnpkbJG7sNjoJpS4YIBegjTQXCLuy4ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iiWwiBOBpho/Wfd6FgCz-BI/AAAAAAAATyk/CAWnpkbJG7sNjoJpS4YIBegjTQXCLuy4ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW174.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>If the young ones can still walk beneath their mother, then they are less than six months old. We saw three in this group with one only two months old.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_8XrOHo6oIM/Wfd6F4b8q6I/AAAAAAAATyo/kg3I6MqOqEIDBhXZxiS7RnSt8bGIE0TGACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_8XrOHo6oIM/Wfd6F4b8q6I/AAAAAAAATyo/kg3I6MqOqEIDBhXZxiS7RnSt8bGIE0TGACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW175.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Typical safari scene in Serengeti.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f5DS03mvMvc/Wfd6GIWUguI/AAAAAAAATys/VtdW3SjbHtADZJlCvx4Iu48c_9AUNW1rgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f5DS03mvMvc/Wfd6GIWUguI/AAAAAAAATys/VtdW3SjbHtADZJlCvx4Iu48c_9AUNW1rgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW176.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This one was eating the grass and would pluck at it with its trunk, then position the various strands while bringing it up higher. He would then place the loose bundle on the flattened underside of its trunk (using it like a table) to further arrange the grass with the end of its trunk. When everything was just right he picked up the bundle again and devoured it. It is said that there are 1,700 muscles in an elephants trunk. Read about their trunks <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephant" target="_blank">in this link</a> that also tells you anything you want to know about these amazing animals.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-inyVJQY7fT0/Wfd6GVIuOOI/AAAAAAAATyw/eaxf6x7fTE0f3UwooEQ6YyznNxcfCCykwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="1000" height="446" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-inyVJQY7fT0/Wfd6GVIuOOI/AAAAAAAATyw/eaxf6x7fTE0f3UwooEQ6YyznNxcfCCykwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW177.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">No trip to Serengeti is complete without a view of the leopard. Active at night, they usually can be found resting in the branches of an acacia tree during the day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next stop, Petra in the country of Jordan!</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-39168946622449503312017-10-28T19:29:00.002-07:002017-10-28T19:29:26.935-07:00Visiting the Taj Mahal, Agra IndiaI am sorry for the delay in posting. I have been in the States now for one week but attended my High School reunion in Southern California and was delayed in getting home.<br /><br />The last time I visited the Taj Mahal, a pouring rain made the visit a sloppy mess and precluded any photography (although the huge crowds at that time were a really interesting part of the experience). This time, conditions could not have been more ideal and it was my first time in which I visited at sunrise - a huge difference with respect to the light and the lack of crowds. Agra does not have a commercial airport (we landed at a military airport) and many visitors make the 100 mile drive from Dehli and do not arrive until late morning. (During the peak tourist season, up to 45,000 people visit the Taj <i><u>each day</u></i>).The sunrise option was a great way to see this marvelous construction!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzcpNfTNyQE/WfUvFQDYzQI/AAAAAAAATwI/9mCbY1XJQZsXAyvLvH1e2i2wiB_Hnf7nACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzcpNfTNyQE/WfUvFQDYzQI/AAAAAAAATwI/9mCbY1XJQZsXAyvLvH1e2i2wiB_Hnf7nACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW140.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Taj is merely the crown in a body of architectural jewels. Before seeing it, one must pass through a large gate that makes the building look more remote than it actually is. This is an actual design feature made purposely.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MacmgfWrCIQ/WfUvFYB53sI/AAAAAAAATwQ/ajHsJklYH78RpNzwUIyEyq7REqrUNOHEgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MacmgfWrCIQ/WfUvFYB53sI/AAAAAAAATwQ/ajHsJklYH78RpNzwUIyEyq7REqrUNOHEgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW142.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Once through the gate, its appearance changes as it is viewed along the long reflecting pools.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbDHpV3ubec/WfUvGFZNCMI/AAAAAAAATwU/mxlFvagNQYA3RmXTQ8pVXOO1Hs-53_zcwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbDHpV3ubec/WfUvGFZNCMI/AAAAAAAATwU/mxlFvagNQYA3RmXTQ8pVXOO1Hs-53_zcwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW143.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the view backwards to the entrance gate, composed a red sandstone blocks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hGy9swYGRp0/WfUvHUf01qI/AAAAAAAATwg/o8hst9YQuHQzMTK7M1JrQ7oUiMvLmv5SQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hGy9swYGRp0/WfUvHUf01qI/AAAAAAAATwg/o8hst9YQuHQzMTK7M1JrQ7oUiMvLmv5SQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW146.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sunrise east of the Taj Mahal on October 11, 2017.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gunLeuEeXh4/WfUvGfFD-wI/AAAAAAAATwY/h6WeR6WtQ0gZf2aYBWskH22zz1Yd7DnZQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gunLeuEeXh4/WfUvGfFD-wI/AAAAAAAATwY/h6WeR6WtQ0gZf2aYBWskH22zz1Yd7DnZQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW144.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Looking straight up along the front façade of the construction is beautiful Arabic calligraphy in black marble set within white marble. It mainly contains verses from the Koran. A short article on the calligraphy can be found <a href="https://www.tajmahal.org.uk/calligraphy.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g3uxur0ThsU/WfUvG6ZutoI/AAAAAAAATwc/pBmaFN3Wu1MRfTrtD760UVyvT3931vmJgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g3uxur0ThsU/WfUvG6ZutoI/AAAAAAAATwc/pBmaFN3Wu1MRfTrtD760UVyvT3931vmJgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW145.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The façade has incredible inlaid stones that resemble flowers. The types of stones are varied from white and black marble, red jasper and coral, yellow onyx, blue lapis-lazuli, and others. It is incredibly well-rendered.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><ahref bp.blogspot.com="" fuvhzczfwi="" g_yhxhkw5a="" https:="" imageanchor="1" s1600="" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" w6szxmhz1o4sxbja_ebnhyskiv4gxwhvaclcbgas="" wk=""><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0g_yhXhkW5A/WfUvHzcZfWI/AAAAAAAATwk/w6SzXmhZ1o4SxbJA_ebnhYSKiv4GxWhvACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW147.JPG" width="640" /></ahref></div>One of the realities of traveling in India is that the air-quality is usually very bad and this sunrise was n o exception. A combination of smoke from domestic and agricultural fires, exhaust and fog make for interesting skies. This is the Yamuna River which id the second longest and largest tributary of the Gangers River. It begins in the high Himalaya at an elevation of nearly 21,000 feet and flows for 850 miles to the Ganges, through the north-central part of India.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YyU8DRGWLSU/WfUvIfyw_9I/AAAAAAAATwo/LGxZ5tUusxEFzajdJoufMnIXLUa0wnk4gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YyU8DRGWLSU/WfUvIfyw_9I/AAAAAAAATwo/LGxZ5tUusxEFzajdJoufMnIXLUa0wnk4gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW148.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>One of the minaret towers with the moon present above it. The Taj Mahal (literally, Crown of the Palace) is actually a mausoleum. It was commissioned by the Mughul emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 to house the tomb of his favorite wife. It was completed in 1653. Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son (who assumed the throne) for "wasting" funds on its construction and his cell in the Agra Fort looked over the river toward his masterpiece. He looked at there Taj for the last five years of his life while in confinement.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4-bG-7KQz-U/WfUvIxMxunI/AAAAAAAATws/Uqv3FHDjOzkNR2coAflBAO7hUamFUmc6QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4-bG-7KQz-U/WfUvIxMxunI/AAAAAAAATws/Uqv3FHDjOzkNR2coAflBAO7hUamFUmc6QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW149.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>The building is mostly made of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makrana_marble" target="_blank">Makrana marble</a>, quarried in Rajasthan, India in the northwest part of the country. It is a Precambrian- age metamorphosed limestone that is part of the Dehli SuperGroup. Metamorphism commenced about 1,450 Ma during an event known as the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tectonic_evolution_of_the_Aravalli_Mountains" target="_blank">Dehli Orogeny</a>. This is very old marble. India holds a spectacular and robust geologic evolution!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OntdtRUCZh0/WfUvKyi17rI/AAAAAAAATw8/igx_3mPCZQo1xZRjqdtuCXc0elAqtWIAQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OntdtRUCZh0/WfUvKyi17rI/AAAAAAAATw8/igx_3mPCZQo1xZRjqdtuCXc0elAqtWIAQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW153.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A different view of the Taj from the west. The gardens surrounding the grounds (measuring nearly 1/3rd by 1/2 a kilometer) &nbsp;are impressive.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ckN7XcabPPE/WfUvKY6voMI/AAAAAAAATw4/f7rd_saSduAXBoyhFDDwb0x5_inRhl_sACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ckN7XcabPPE/WfUvKY6voMI/AAAAAAAATw4/f7rd_saSduAXBoyhFDDwb0x5_inRhl_sACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW152.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Western pathway among the gardens.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUASsRPbdVo/WfUvKAWGq4I/AAAAAAAATw0/kErh5l1hE-Id1rE21OQIqoMSVvGbFXGCACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUASsRPbdVo/WfUvKAWGq4I/AAAAAAAATw0/kErh5l1hE-Id1rE21OQIqoMSVvGbFXGCACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW151.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Red sandstone carving with inlaid stone border on one of the side buildings, themselves very impressive.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBcbAYyutzg/WfUvLnVKAMI/AAAAAAAATxA/A0-6FJLyeUYq10QZSTltSNtFrsbwjLVFACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBcbAYyutzg/WfUvLnVKAMI/AAAAAAAATxA/A0-6FJLyeUYq10QZSTltSNtFrsbwjLVFACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW154.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Taj receives 8 million visitors per year and it is a kind of pilgrimage site for Indians.<br /><br />Next posting from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-80000336174865027782017-10-17T23:21:00.004-07:002017-10-20T04:09:22.511-07:00Temples at Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Bayon, CambodiaAfter landing in Cambodia we entered the bustling town of Siem Reap, which serves as the gateway city to the temples of Angkor Wat.<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wQQaNqHFsHE/WeOjgzQygII/AAAAAAAATtw/TW_R2F3vsdUCXEZqkJ_QWoWhBTK6SEbmQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="792" height="446" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wQQaNqHFsHE/WeOjgzQygII/AAAAAAAATtw/TW_R2F3vsdUCXEZqkJ_QWoWhBTK6SEbmQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW093.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>View from the western gate at sunrise. Angkor Wat (City of Temples) is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khmer_Empire" target="_blank">Khmer empire</a> monument that was built over a 30 year period in the 12th century.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S9Ru7eOCv1Y/WeOjhLvyTEI/AAAAAAAATt0/Qq61NpL4oHQZvLfGJsMm01JFlKdwY0SYgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S9Ru7eOCv1Y/WeOjhLvyTEI/AAAAAAAATt0/Qq61NpL4oHQZvLfGJsMm01JFlKdwY0SYgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW094.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It is famous for its sheer size and its bas-relief carvings on sandstone, which was quarried from the Kulen Mountains 30 miles away. The sandstone blocks were rafted down man-made canals to the site. The sandstone is part of the Terrane Rouge Formation, a Lower to Middle Jurassic (200 to 150 Ma) lacustrine and fluvial unit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7lboqUc4ETk/WeOjhHuNilI/AAAAAAAATt4/etdXuazy8rIWkxD1IL8P33bJsmA3ApEHwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7lboqUc4ETk/WeOjhHuNilI/AAAAAAAATt4/etdXuazy8rIWkxD1IL8P33bJsmA3ApEHwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW095.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The many hallways inside the mile-long complex are astounding in their complexity and design.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2sRzzLT7qyY/WeOjh5szvlI/AAAAAAAATt8/qSUF43SrwPYZXnEdGO-AD7L_JJAeKOEPACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2sRzzLT7qyY/WeOjh5szvlI/AAAAAAAATt8/qSUF43SrwPYZXnEdGO-AD7L_JJAeKOEPACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW096.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Buddhist worshipers still use the monument for prayers and festivals.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XfrYZ8757Fw/WeOjiLacuZI/AAAAAAAATuA/i1lBL41zqSgV2uUyODz8TY0XWElg9mZLQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="466" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XfrYZ8757Fw/WeOjiLacuZI/AAAAAAAATuA/i1lBL41zqSgV2uUyODz8TY0XWElg9mZLQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW097.JPG" width="446" /></a></div>Detail of a wall carving showing the artistic nature of the site, which began as a Hindu temple but was converted to a Buddhist shrine in the latter part of the 12th century.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--clAxMtZg9g/WeOjiUIZzJI/AAAAAAAATuE/aQNHNBmkVf8LdCnS0p3SwOkN0qEZ9vpnwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--clAxMtZg9g/WeOjiUIZzJI/AAAAAAAATuE/aQNHNBmkVf8LdCnS0p3SwOkN0qEZ9vpnwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW098.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Many war scenes are depicted and shown here is a line of soldiers marching into battle.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DQYW-hVSkGo/WeOji83R9QI/AAAAAAAATuI/g34eMbkY6jg117nTMcQCDZ4akp_a2lTywCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DQYW-hVSkGo/WeOji83R9QI/AAAAAAAATuI/g34eMbkY6jg117nTMcQCDZ4akp_a2lTywCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW099.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>View of the south wall of Angkor Wat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ASwQcORJsq0/WeOjjTuhjFI/AAAAAAAATuM/5oIRxw7JKygd_WonLBbLY4vSuxwqWms9ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ASwQcORJsq0/WeOjjTuhjFI/AAAAAAAATuM/5oIRxw7JKygd_WonLBbLY4vSuxwqWms9ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW101.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We spent three nights in Siem Reap Cambodia and were able to visit many other temple sites within the complex. There are literally hundreds of sites, some still covered with jungle vegetation.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gEgFUF_5qFs/WeOjjwcb3LI/AAAAAAAATuQ/4wfHJx7wy50fRchg_9WmZMeVBMkk1e02wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gEgFUF_5qFs/WeOjjwcb3LI/AAAAAAAATuQ/4wfHJx7wy50fRchg_9WmZMeVBMkk1e02wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW102.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This one is known as <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angkor_Thom" target="_blank">Angkor Thom</a> (Great City) and was the capital of the Khmer empire from which all of the great buildings were conceived and executed. It too was built in the 12th century and is located about one mile from Angkor Wat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMBAlCtI4UE/WeOjjxboFPI/AAAAAAAATuU/5-e16mBjbpMtc4_Zs2XgHwiXdBjxq7oewCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="611" data-original-width="804" height="486" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMBAlCtI4UE/WeOjjxboFPI/AAAAAAAATuU/5-e16mBjbpMtc4_Zs2XgHwiXdBjxq7oewCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW103.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It is famous today for the way archaeologists have left large trees that cling to the temple walls, giving an impression of remoteness and mystery to the site.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MPVqpa3CSzc/WeOjkkIYR5I/AAAAAAAATuY/DPuhryH2S7AqG-FVvlWZ7w7Q3ykc2IrowCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MPVqpa3CSzc/WeOjkkIYR5I/AAAAAAAATuY/DPuhryH2S7AqG-FVvlWZ7w7Q3ykc2IrowCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW104.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Trees that damage walls are removed but those that merely cover or drape over the walls are left standing.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldKJ8gjMSNE/WeOjmjje2CI/AAAAAAAATuk/e6qnGbK-4a8hGDANTjDjmGf_GHq5BU3awCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldKJ8gjMSNE/WeOjmjje2CI/AAAAAAAATuk/e6qnGbK-4a8hGDANTjDjmGf_GHq5BU3awCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW105.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Everything is covered in green moss and algae - even the crumbled blocks at the base of the walls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwE3WN-D634/WeOjlhV3vhI/AAAAAAAATuc/aPxAQOZ8C8UodYNKU-9xySLfS7IVQJskgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwE3WN-D634/WeOjlhV3vhI/AAAAAAAATuc/aPxAQOZ8C8UodYNKU-9xySLfS7IVQJskgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW106.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Weathered sandstone bas-relief panel of goddesses. There is a concern about the salt-weathering that is eating away on some of the sandstone reliefs. This process involves the growth of salt crystals that physically grow and break down the sandstone cement. The salts are derived from the bat guano that is deposited on the walls,<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XbLm93hZ-I/WeOjlnpLFcI/AAAAAAAATug/WlCQhSS4jsM3HIQL5UeWCudNGaJHxJTqQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="823" data-original-width="614" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XbLm93hZ-I/WeOjlnpLFcI/AAAAAAAATug/WlCQhSS4jsM3HIQL5UeWCudNGaJHxJTqQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW107.JPG" width="476" /></a></div>Angkor Thom.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9WJgONRpxv0/WeOjmxArD0I/AAAAAAAATuo/pUBX5RpkF2wEOk4xKjYdsXyT92qOs1CGQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9WJgONRpxv0/WeOjmxArD0I/AAAAAAAATuo/pUBX5RpkF2wEOk4xKjYdsXyT92qOs1CGQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW108.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Detail in a sandstone wall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LNaC1xbwrNI/WeOjnCPnH-I/AAAAAAAATus/6tDKjgPTbLU_KHwf23xp-ayDK0zz9G3DgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LNaC1xbwrNI/WeOjnCPnH-I/AAAAAAAATus/6tDKjgPTbLU_KHwf23xp-ayDK0zz9G3DgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW109.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Fantastic strangler fig roots at Angkor Tom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8SS7R3yPmRM/WeOjnpQRV8I/AAAAAAAATuw/NhJd7di0vQ4KBTaVbEhP9qpzO4v0J6lPACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="917" height="440" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8SS7R3yPmRM/WeOjnpQRV8I/AAAAAAAATuw/NhJd7di0vQ4KBTaVbEhP9qpzO4v0J6lPACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>They are huge in some cases.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DvgXSHfqtvw/WeOjoH3KIYI/AAAAAAAATu0/LW7M8Um_yS4UkjI8k17qZm0Ne5E0__i3gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DvgXSHfqtvw/WeOjoH3KIYI/AAAAAAAATu0/LW7M8Um_yS4UkjI8k17qZm0Ne5E0__i3gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW112.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>The last site I will show is called Bayon which has 216 images of Buddha on 54 towers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-de2ZIsB842c/WeOjoaBpLAI/AAAAAAAATu4/xQPE9SCAzPo4LHThXwlvqANp6_6Etx1igCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-de2ZIsB842c/WeOjoaBpLAI/AAAAAAAATu4/xQPE9SCAzPo4LHThXwlvqANp6_6Etx1igCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW113.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Here at least five Buddha faces are seen. Can you find them?<br /><br />Next stop is the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-78468974796071705702017-10-14T19:22:00.001-07:002017-10-14T19:22:12.001-07:00Flying Across the Equator from Australia to Southeast AsiaOne of the reasons I love doing this kind of trip is that I get to partake in a life-long passion of flying.&nbsp;When I was a kid I wanted to be an airline pilot and as I got older I aimed for the stars and wanted to be an astronaut. (I had to settle being a geologic lecturer on a private jet but it still gets into the air). &nbsp; I love to fly and always have and so far, I show no signs of tiring of it, even though the airlines do everything they can to make it a miserable experience. I like seeing the earth from above. This flight segment went from northeast Australia to Cambodia.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y7fp_dQsnCw/WeK9se_naoI/AAAAAAAATtE/Uxq02lmhNdwmVRReiQkStGeflK_k8gSuQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y7fp_dQsnCw/WeK9se_naoI/AAAAAAAATtE/Uxq02lmhNdwmVRReiQkStGeflK_k8gSuQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW083.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A part of the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. I gave a lecture on the jet as soon as we climbed out of Cairns Australia and so I missed photographing the York Peninsula, the Gulf of Carpenteria, and Darwin.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J6tSxrCeheI/WeK9sTwmTsI/AAAAAAAATtA/1vTj_-6bYN8RqsXs6JepAr7-qEirBhx0ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J6tSxrCeheI/WeK9sTwmTsI/AAAAAAAATtA/1vTj_-6bYN8RqsXs6JepAr7-qEirBhx0ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW084.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A large distributary river system on the eastern side of the island of Borneo, just south of Tarakan.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oUq7-5OUNzY/WeK9rUuM1tI/AAAAAAAATs8/R94XtXoEzzo4BB2cHf5d9624mUbYQNirQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oUq7-5OUNzY/WeK9rUuM1tI/AAAAAAAATs8/R94XtXoEzzo4BB2cHf5d9624mUbYQNirQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW085.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A huge river in the jungles of eastern Borneo. The largest island in Asia and third largest in the world, Borneo is antipodal of the Amazon basin.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YcCJ2jUl_eU/WeK9tDIFajI/AAAAAAAATtI/wnT5CBX8wpYOQMT71y_Bv0Kfm3E7IwNnACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YcCJ2jUl_eU/WeK9tDIFajI/AAAAAAAATtI/wnT5CBX8wpYOQMT71y_Bv0Kfm3E7IwNnACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW086.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A huge thunderhead over Borneo. We had to divert slightly off our course to miss some of the big vapor towers. The photograph does no justice to its immense size.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XpFqZJ36vOY/WeK9vfSOZTI/AAAAAAAATtM/nO4pFc9E3WUggDNUktzX8d21SeQobrrvwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XpFqZJ36vOY/WeK9vfSOZTI/AAAAAAAATtM/nO4pFc9E3WUggDNUktzX8d21SeQobrrvwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW087.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I suspect this is runoff from some sort of mining project ,although who knows. It looks like a pipeline is leading toward the coast from some sort of industrial center next to the river.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFbyotaPJgo/WeK9wRSWDxI/AAAAAAAATtQ/spSzBFtFc-AYopXYQE0wzGr-TYf3T6eUwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFbyotaPJgo/WeK9wRSWDxI/AAAAAAAATtQ/spSzBFtFc-AYopXYQE0wzGr-TYf3T6eUwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW088.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>This is <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brunei" target="_blank">Brunei</a>, the tiny nation on the northeast coast of Borneo. The island is divided among three countries Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-luU2cOK-pCQ/WeK9xLoaudI/AAAAAAAATtU/oivgDrPuzQQFeXgCrExbjVpXYo6j_GhIgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-luU2cOK-pCQ/WeK9xLoaudI/AAAAAAAATtU/oivgDrPuzQQFeXgCrExbjVpXYo6j_GhIgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW089.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>After crossing the South China Sea, we entered the airspace of Vietnam and the is Ho Chi Minh City, the former Saigon. The Mekong River bisects the city.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tdJi_EYkSEg/WeK9ytxkM0I/AAAAAAAATtY/TOUCXflHZJ8hcwu4aUBeP7q79CI7AqlogCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tdJi_EYkSEg/WeK9ytxkM0I/AAAAAAAATtY/TOUCXflHZJ8hcwu4aUBeP7q79CI7AqlogCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW090.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mekong" target="_blank">Mekong River,</a>&nbsp;the planet's 12th longest river, shown north of Ho Chi Minh City.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sDBN7ETncL4/WeK90R_XHVI/AAAAAAAATtc/0_qtKzfmMj0usBfHedVuT-J_K78Pq-rmQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sDBN7ETncL4/WeK90R_XHVI/AAAAAAAATtc/0_qtKzfmMj0usBfHedVuT-J_K78Pq-rmQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW091.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Landing at Siem Reap, Cambodia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OTO98sO9_fs/WeK90lPiKYI/AAAAAAAATtg/nzbPeGdQd3gj-wJqwKVI_xVPwnub9DchACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OTO98sO9_fs/WeK90lPiKYI/AAAAAAAATtg/nzbPeGdQd3gj-wJqwKVI_xVPwnub9DchACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW092.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Cambodia is not so much a country as it is a body of water! At least in the rainy season. There had been very heavy rains and we visited at the end of the long rainy season. Watch for my post from Angkor Wat next.</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-62833568394889673902017-10-08T21:52:00.003-07:002017-10-08T21:59:17.728-07:00Australia's Great Barrier ReefWe left Easter Island and had a six-hour flight to obtain fuel in Papaette, Tahiti. Nice to finally see this tropical paradise that I have heard so much about (although I do not not count this as a country visited unless I spend the night). We then had another three-hour flight arriving in Apia, Western Samoa. This was to be our only one night stay on the whole trip. After one night here, then another six-hour flight to Cairns Australia, where we were to visit the Great Barrier Reef. I don't know the names of&nbsp;any of &nbsp;the fishes or corals - so just enjoy this photo gallery of my snorkel day at the Reef.<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gehTYx5b964/Wdr88CE_0fI/AAAAAAAATrU/xQt4ole5C0I5lVPzKVH2Erkdu73o5DkYQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="422" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gehTYx5b964/Wdr88CE_0fI/AAAAAAAATrU/xQt4ole5C0I5lVPzKVH2Erkdu73o5DkYQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW064.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Flying into Australia we passed over the southern end of the island of New Caledonia. This is a continental sliver of crust that was once part of the Gondwana supercontinent. Note there fringing reef and lagoon along the shore.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1RL2xJpkUyc/Wdr88n1hNRI/AAAAAAAATrY/VFpWQc1wN_wnQMyQwhMWp1FrI-Ewt9FqgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="422" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1RL2xJpkUyc/Wdr88n1hNRI/AAAAAAAATrY/VFpWQc1wN_wnQMyQwhMWp1FrI-Ewt9FqgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW065.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Flying over the Great Barrier Reef as we come into Cairns. It is between 1200 and 1600 miles in length containing over 900 islands.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ywOG7N8to4/Wdr9C-WS6gI/AAAAAAAATrg/YC5vtFHxifEQY7KjZTX3dFqRDiwtv0oIACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ywOG7N8to4/Wdr9C-WS6gI/AAAAAAAATrg/YC5vtFHxifEQY7KjZTX3dFqRDiwtv0oIACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW081.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Our jumping off spot to tour the reef was a from the title town of Port Douglas on Australia's northeast coast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9PMNGKRTIM/Wdr9CrlLKII/AAAAAAAATrc/rlkHm6SH8oYr9yNg88SnP0H5bgmztBtPgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9PMNGKRTIM/Wdr9CrlLKII/AAAAAAAATrc/rlkHm6SH8oYr9yNg88SnP0H5bgmztBtPgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW082.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Entrance to the harbor at Port Douglas.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d-_BIOkOB3s/Wdr9HkCQJuI/AAAAAAAATrk/RPczeHgKENEXz7X_G8cLRCL6ZwZKf_5aQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d-_BIOkOB3s/Wdr9HkCQJuI/AAAAAAAATrk/RPczeHgKENEXz7X_G8cLRCL6ZwZKf_5aQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW066.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Our catamaran boat that took us 25 miles out to the reef. The next pictures have little descriptive text.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fImpHLPhCKE/Wdr9IkO-7qI/AAAAAAAATrs/kx1etrFubuA4Qp358E93ZxWDJJIS4xUHwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fImpHLPhCKE/Wdr9IkO-7qI/AAAAAAAATrs/kx1etrFubuA4Qp358E93ZxWDJJIS4xUHwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW067.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FuYouG1OLQc/Wdr9Ik5OoFI/AAAAAAAATro/AsrA1KjUgRQ4sUlu0oQvmzKlsHLBD4FYACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FuYouG1OLQc/Wdr9Ik5OoFI/AAAAAAAATro/AsrA1KjUgRQ4sUlu0oQvmzKlsHLBD4FYACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW068.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BOONT1Hone4/Wdr9JBWyClI/AAAAAAAATrw/q8H2y0pDYHcY5VVbX1LrAqJvSNmjjrfEACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BOONT1Hone4/Wdr9JBWyClI/AAAAAAAATrw/q8H2y0pDYHcY5VVbX1LrAqJvSNmjjrfEACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW069.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There was a huge coral bleaching event in the northern 1/3 of the reef in 2016. I estimate that 75% of the corals at this site were dead from that bleaching event. I gave a lecture on the jet coming into Australia about the reef and the threats to it from climate change. Here is branching coral that is 100% dead.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ErBC5k9OhWc/Wdr9KoegN5I/AAAAAAAATr4/LoDlINa8t_8sCKAQoei43Psx_B07M1L6ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ErBC5k9OhWc/Wdr9KoegN5I/AAAAAAAATr4/LoDlINa8t_8sCKAQoei43Psx_B07M1L6ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW070.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vcqzm2GTR3w/Wdr9Km5mcnI/AAAAAAAATr0/VZpE32hM8k8wOV6f11piLPNqzRfT1bDKACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vcqzm2GTR3w/Wdr9Km5mcnI/AAAAAAAATr0/VZpE32hM8k8wOV6f11piLPNqzRfT1bDKACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW071.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tCbdDllXTfA/Wdr9KzvcRNI/AAAAAAAATr8/E4CZrqc2wW0T4wIbn1KpQU2Uh2sgjYB-gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tCbdDllXTfA/Wdr9KzvcRNI/AAAAAAAATr8/E4CZrqc2wW0T4wIbn1KpQU2Uh2sgjYB-gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW072.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GrN0hvx7-jc/Wdr9MMvumkI/AAAAAAAATsA/e1j_OC74eKABoh5-yUTAhVg2N93irhgMQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GrN0hvx7-jc/Wdr9MMvumkI/AAAAAAAATsA/e1j_OC74eKABoh5-yUTAhVg2N93irhgMQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW073.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A giant clam and its amazing colors.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pMyQG-btTg4/Wdr9MfMhrYI/AAAAAAAATsI/XsL9VWPFhyIY5U6lr7TONMcIZuUk9eFjwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pMyQG-btTg4/Wdr9MfMhrYI/AAAAAAAATsI/XsL9VWPFhyIY5U6lr7TONMcIZuUk9eFjwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW074.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYMXipRipLc/Wdr9MbS4fsI/AAAAAAAATsE/GioBtWtT5-oZaXOeJxVFrWWtFRKhad1hQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYMXipRipLc/Wdr9MbS4fsI/AAAAAAAATsE/GioBtWtT5-oZaXOeJxVFrWWtFRKhad1hQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW075.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGTZ0rqx608/Wdr9NPvjpyI/AAAAAAAATsM/RWEb9amASEgDngP7F9amF9hWX_aJ7EDeQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGTZ0rqx608/Wdr9NPvjpyI/AAAAAAAATsM/RWEb9amASEgDngP7F9amF9hWX_aJ7EDeQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW076.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6h8ymMbWUDI/Wdr9OpYONtI/AAAAAAAATsQ/s3JbXzrLkIgPjXpAkERhZfvlRudaO71UQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6h8ymMbWUDI/Wdr9OpYONtI/AAAAAAAATsQ/s3JbXzrLkIgPjXpAkERhZfvlRudaO71UQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW077.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-76Gpex_4UQ4/Wdr9OpkqfZI/AAAAAAAATsU/4jahcekjfH4QToLz_QPaKkDXloZwIsS7QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-76Gpex_4UQ4/Wdr9OpkqfZI/AAAAAAAATsU/4jahcekjfH4QToLz_QPaKkDXloZwIsS7QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Some folks went scuba diving.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9t9Dfynuc1Y/Wdr9PWRkbLI/AAAAAAAATsY/U567gVhemDIR8wgHmbKKmhtGgpIMtg0ggCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9t9Dfynuc1Y/Wdr9PWRkbLI/AAAAAAAATsY/U567gVhemDIR8wgHmbKKmhtGgpIMtg0ggCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW079.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PU-t13jajLk/Wdr9Q_1GyaI/AAAAAAAATsc/CMohGbDey_Qhw76eCk6Hxg1dmWOSlMY0gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PU-t13jajLk/Wdr9Q_1GyaI/AAAAAAAATsc/CMohGbDey_Qhw76eCk6Hxg1dmWOSlMY0gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>Next we fly back to the northern hemisphere and the ruins known as Angkor Wat in Cambodia.</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-34320763365585632082017-10-04T11:36:00.001-07:002017-10-04T11:36:08.877-07:00Geology and Archaeology of Easter IslandEaster Island is one of my favorite destinations and I always enjoy coming here. It never gets old to me. The geology is well displayed and itself is worth a visit. But it is the volcanic rock statues of course and the history they embody that is the main attraction.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtrSkGJkNb8/WdUJz1mAjrI/AAAAAAAATpU/KPn2jTWoKBI4auTvS9Y16G_LwNlsfK2JwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="864" height="432" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtrSkGJkNb8/WdUJz1mAjrI/AAAAAAAATpU/KPn2jTWoKBI4auTvS9Y16G_LwNlsfK2JwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW038.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>As is typical on these private jet trips, we were able to fly around the island for some sightseeing before landing! Imagine using a Boeing 757 for flight-seeing. Here are the statues at Tongariki from 1600 feet on our fly-around. Close-ups of this site will be featured at the end of the post.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FGcAc-I6uT4/WdUJ0XPEckI/AAAAAAAATpY/APFGfJyIvuYpTDk0EDmR4hcHoGXNaHbNwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FGcAc-I6uT4/WdUJ0XPEckI/AAAAAAAATpY/APFGfJyIvuYpTDk0EDmR4hcHoGXNaHbNwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Ranu Raraku tuff cone is where 95% of the statues were quarried (located at the base of the cliff on the far right side). Stratification in the cone remnant suggests that most of it has ben eroded away and that the visible portion is merely the left hand one-fourth of the former cone, which would have extended farther to the right. A second tuff cone formed later and is now filled with water and can be partially seen behind the cliff.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zJ6eHm-lsvA/WdUJ03O8-GI/AAAAAAAATpc/ilAyvpI5idwA9d8BxNk6nVcm2WyCQZU5QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zJ6eHm-lsvA/WdUJ03O8-GI/AAAAAAAATpc/ilAyvpI5idwA9d8BxNk6nVcm2WyCQZU5QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Three shield volcanoes are present on the island and this is Teravaka, the highest shield at about 1600 feet. The eruptions began about 2.5 Ma and emerged above sea level by about 780,000 years ago. The three shields are thought to have been separate islands before their distal flows merged to create the island we know today.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ9UDyGJueM/WdUJ2xr7oII/AAAAAAAATpg/nsGROkiZ6Codf-nndk0JDmjCJi9k8aoJwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ9UDyGJueM/WdUJ2xr7oII/AAAAAAAATpg/nsGROkiZ6Codf-nndk0JDmjCJi9k8aoJwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The airstrip was constructed in the mid-1960's and was lengthened in the 1980's to two miles in order to accommodate an emergency landing for the space shuttle (it was never needed). Modern tourism to the island began with the construction of this airstrip. Now there are flights every day from Santiago - note the jet on the tarmac). When I first came here in 1995 there were only two flights per week.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AtdWeeJPvw/WdUJ5V1kjqI/AAAAAAAATpk/J4xdulZ3lKcDnhm1UmlWyQczBkuzW2hPQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="912" height="440" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AtdWeeJPvw/WdUJ5V1kjqI/AAAAAAAATpk/J4xdulZ3lKcDnhm1UmlWyQczBkuzW2hPQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On the north side of the island are three <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trachyte" target="_blank">trachyte</a> </i>domes. Trachyte is a feldspar-rich type of volcanic rock containing about 65% silica. Note the dike leading to the dissected dome and exposed in the sea cliff. This concludes the air tour of the island - what a treat!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rxb_GQ-g1VQ/WdUJ5XHw_TI/AAAAAAAATpo/ZlYeK-s-Id4fjc0nT1TaLkz-f2rBbUYHgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="933" height="404" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rxb_GQ-g1VQ/WdUJ5XHw_TI/AAAAAAAATpo/ZlYeK-s-Id4fjc0nT1TaLkz-f2rBbUYHgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Our first stop on the ground was at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahu_Akivi" target="_blank"><i>Akivi Ahu</i></a> on the flanks of the Teravaka shield volcano. It contains many celestial attributes regarding a solar calendar used by the islanders (see the link above). Most statues are about this size although they become bigger with time on the island.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-83tnYvSuDRc/WdUJ5qqZUxI/AAAAAAAATps/MEt26D0HargVCx6Aqsf97DWzeq3ZyLsTgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-83tnYvSuDRc/WdUJ5qqZUxI/AAAAAAAATps/MEt26D0HargVCx6Aqsf97DWzeq3ZyLsTgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Next stop was Tahai on the west coast and close to the only town on the island, Hanga Roa. This site was dug and restored in 1974 by the famous Easter Island archaeologist, Dr. William Mulloy of the University of Wyoming.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-inqn0NvKxLI/WdUJ6Sc-L-I/AAAAAAAATpw/TLRTFZ7Bkr4_Fi3g80QdyUvSEfKIQOA3gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-inqn0NvKxLI/WdUJ6Sc-L-I/AAAAAAAATpw/TLRTFZ7Bkr4_Fi3g80QdyUvSEfKIQOA3gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW045.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>This moai was found with the remains of its eyes near the base and so were restored by Dr, Mulloy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7dF9EAGO0g/WdUJ8O9FRDI/AAAAAAAATp0/UVMVfUFvwQY4f9ou-_xUaS3lnDabNTYxACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7dF9EAGO0g/WdUJ8O9FRDI/AAAAAAAATp0/UVMVfUFvwQY4f9ou-_xUaS3lnDabNTYxACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We always have entertainment at the end of our tours and these musicians performed right on the beach where a large tent was set up with fresh fruit sticks, fruit juice and champagne.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IKp7JXFQUG4/WdUJ8MvtX7I/AAAAAAAATp4/swvWCRILIBArWt69TV7jYpX4dT3kAm9oACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IKp7JXFQUG4/WdUJ8MvtX7I/AAAAAAAATp4/swvWCRILIBArWt69TV7jYpX4dT3kAm9oACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Huge waves crashed nearby on the shore and were from a recent storm.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pBWfA0FeOLc/WdUJ8bOnszI/AAAAAAAATp8/EPRuEKj5-ZEZi7R-mnFNfSTfzQ4sGWhuwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pBWfA0FeOLc/WdUJ8bOnszI/AAAAAAAATp8/EPRuEKj5-ZEZi7R-mnFNfSTfzQ4sGWhuwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW048.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Ranu Kao is another shield volcano that contains a large caldera on its crest. The diameter of the caldera is one mile across.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gIPLt3Vxj4g/WdUJ81yA5OI/AAAAAAAATqA/Lj2rBZtgVxEsCP6VPUbp-wIKKQdcrniFwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="961" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gIPLt3Vxj4g/WdUJ81yA5OI/AAAAAAAATqA/Lj2rBZtgVxEsCP6VPUbp-wIKKQdcrniFwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW049.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The famous island of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motu_Nui" target="_blank"><i>Motu Nui</i></a> where the Bird Man competition was held from about 1680 until 1867. See the link for details on this interesting aspect of the islands history.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xpFK-wdJeiY/WdUJ9JMx3UI/AAAAAAAATqE/heYee8K8b2YLG1iCxgf9fyrxQsXy_tvNACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="905" height="448" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xpFK-wdJeiY/WdUJ9JMx3UI/AAAAAAAATqE/heYee8K8b2YLG1iCxgf9fyrxQsXy_tvNACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW050.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We finally made our way to the eastern side of the island and the quarry site at Ranu Raraku. By the 1800's all of the statues had been toppled and their heads became severed in the fall. This statue has not been restored.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5EH4uoguTjs/WdUJ-CieEkI/AAAAAAAATqI/W5XN2xTtnxs9VneG5HiznEZYJQUqfktgwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5EH4uoguTjs/WdUJ-CieEkI/AAAAAAAATqI/W5XN2xTtnxs9VneG5HiznEZYJQUqfktgwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW051.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Ranu Raraku is where most of the well-known photos of Easter Island are taken since this was the statue "factory" and over 30 of them are nearby (over 900 statues are known on the island). These two are complete statues but have been buried in eroded material from the cliff above. The Easter Islanders stopped making statues sometime in the late 17th century and this is how much infill has occurred since that time.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hzlOV2d4suk/WdUKBHQq_RI/AAAAAAAATqQ/qjJ6NmIGj7UqtCSx8tBs0Hv6yGP5uZqMgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hzlOV2d4suk/WdUKBHQq_RI/AAAAAAAATqQ/qjJ6NmIGj7UqtCSx8tBs0Hv6yGP5uZqMgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>They are truly amazing to see!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BSv22p_5OX8/WdUKB3kl-cI/AAAAAAAATqU/3UC1S0MceqUsoiJqypUnjkD4t9nLmBp1gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BSv22p_5OX8/WdUKB3kl-cI/AAAAAAAATqU/3UC1S0MceqUsoiJqypUnjkD4t9nLmBp1gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW054.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Close-up of a moai at Ranu Raraku.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GFQ0iQfqkBI/WdUKU5263ZI/AAAAAAAATqg/9b-a9zDF600ns3NBRn08TyIWmfc9VgGeQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GFQ0iQfqkBI/WdUKU5263ZI/AAAAAAAATqg/9b-a9zDF600ns3NBRn08TyIWmfc9VgGeQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW061.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This volcano is a tuff cone and the geologic conditions were just right to create the perfect carving stone. Lapilli (small volcanic fragments) were erupted in water (likely sea water) to create a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palagonite" target="_blank"><i>palagonite</i></a> rock. The papilla are not welded to any great extent so it might have taken 8 men only about a year to sculpt of a statue between 20 and 30 feet high.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bGE9F4UHsXc/WdUKUd6kHcI/AAAAAAAATqY/7BJl9s5RfrwSytVkB1qL6NnISrfnN2iUgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bGE9F4UHsXc/WdUKUd6kHcI/AAAAAAAATqY/7BJl9s5RfrwSytVkB1qL6NnISrfnN2iUgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW062.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Here are two statues that were near completion before work on them stopped in the late 17th century.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><ahref bp.blogspot.com="" dukawcltbi="" gdh5j2if3g="" h4o1rre9eb87bp0ezyvmg7xlzi_4a1npqclcbgas="" https:="" imageanchor="1" qm="" s1600="" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7gDH5j2if3g/WdUKAWCltbI/AAAAAAAATqM/h4o1rrE9Eb87bP0EZYvMg7xlzi_4A1NPQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW052.JPG" width="640" /></ahref></div>The hillside is pock-marked with places where statues were quarried. In the old days we walked everywhere over the site. Today much of it is roped off, which is probably a good thing with the numbers of people who come here now. But I am glad I got to have those other experiences as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EMBA0_zpdc4/WdUKwngilSI/AAAAAAAATqk/UcPBcurl5soAOIvTwcxfutu1Q3Yaj1aSwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="974" height="414" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EMBA0_zpdc4/WdUKwngilSI/AAAAAAAATqk/UcPBcurl5soAOIvTwcxfutu1Q3Yaj1aSwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW060.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A good view of the Ranu Raraku tuff cone with a moai guardian near the site called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahu_Tongariki" target="_blank"><i>Tongariki</i></a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-phmhLX50XCE/WdUK0BlDqCI/AAAAAAAATqo/yj6L5Xw5wiYK1Aong1DmJRZO3wEk5naQgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-phmhLX50XCE/WdUK0BlDqCI/AAAAAAAATqo/yj6L5Xw5wiYK1Aong1DmJRZO3wEk5naQgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW059.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the site shown in the very first photograph of this post. 15 statues line the ahu (altar).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SQqjVEivT-E/WdUK2u6ODXI/AAAAAAAATqs/2clZMKZhQb0Jk9goOedbpt1Jko2bFgAJACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="933" height="434" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SQqjVEivT-E/WdUK2u6ODXI/AAAAAAAATqs/2clZMKZhQb0Jk9goOedbpt1Jko2bFgAJACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW058.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Of course, the statues were lying prone where discovered.&nbsp;In May 1960. a tsunami from the great Valdivia Chile earthquake sent the statues further inland. A Japanese benefactor who had visited the site shortly thereafter donated $2,000,000 and huge crane to help Cladio Cristino restore them to this position.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uQzDwFyUzTI/WdUK5Fli1jI/AAAAAAAATqw/if8RuSCQD_4s7f3TK9fcoHzP75330-b5wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="962" height="422" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uQzDwFyUzTI/WdUK5Fli1jI/AAAAAAAATqw/if8RuSCQD_4s7f3TK9fcoHzP75330-b5wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW057.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The detail of preservation is outstanding and the sunlight cooperated well for the photographers in our group.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibInecOItog/WdULEVfB1lI/AAAAAAAATq4/wLnH8ivEFhwrVKXyrQxm97rIrqL7DWEfgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="997" height="414" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibInecOItog/WdULEVfB1lI/AAAAAAAATq4/wLnH8ivEFhwrVKXyrQxm97rIrqL7DWEfgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW055.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This was the main ceremonial center for the eastern confederation during pre-historic times.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--hlFHAd64T4/WdUK_jgT32I/AAAAAAAATq0/Io6kjm0rPFojQ9nfu7IL-zk4-SN5vAlGgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="982" height="420" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--hlFHAd64T4/WdUK_jgT32I/AAAAAAAATq0/Io6kjm0rPFojQ9nfu7IL-zk4-SN5vAlGgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW056.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I feel so lucky to be able to see these fantastic sites! Now it's on to the Great Barrier Reef in northern Australia.Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-52864979651933292792017-10-01T14:25:00.004-07:002017-10-14T19:22:35.381-07:00Around the World - 24 Days - 9 Countries - The North Coast of Peru and Ancient South AmericaThis is going to be one amazing trip! We will use a privately chartered Boeing 757-200 aircraft to fly once around the world. I'll fly about 31,000 miles just on the private jet. In these 24 days our group of 80 will visit 9 different countries, see 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and stay in some pretty amazing resorts. My job is to accompany the passengers who paid $80,000 each to be here and to give lectures on the jet about the earth history and landscapes to be seen along the way. If you'd like to enjoy some armchair traveling, I'll relate on this blog what it is like to partake on such a journey.<br /><div><br /></div><div>I was asked to accompany a small group of 8 persons to the North Coast of Peru where some world-class archaeological sites are located (the rest of the group went to Cusco and Machu Picchu). These eight had visited Machu Picchu before and so opted for this alternative destination.<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVEdXT4Evw8/WdEd_rLOjzI/AAAAAAAATmM/N1zfHS77I-I9yYm6Wfm0RLG6jUMLCi6qwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="863" height="472" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVEdXT4Evw8/WdEd_rLOjzI/AAAAAAAATmM/N1zfHS77I-I9yYm6Wfm0RLG6jUMLCi6qwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>As the great Lao Tsu once said 2,600 years ago, <i>"The journey of 31,000 miles on a private jet begins with one flight." </i>Just after take of, I could see that a Hurricane Maria had recently been here too - the lakeside vegetation was inundated with brown water.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0WBjBGI8Os4/WdEd_rIyRMI/AAAAAAAATmQ/_mZrBiG_xxMxDwn19g91gktPlely-wsTgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="609" data-original-width="763" height="510" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0WBjBGI8Os4/WdEd_rIyRMI/AAAAAAAATmQ/_mZrBiG_xxMxDwn19g91gktPlely-wsTgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Cape Canaveral and the site of the launch pad for the US space program.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wkS5VRHbnA8/WdEeC6-TTsI/AAAAAAAATmU/3K-MejE2cxoFN0KtBIIjFy2AimdPFGZmwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wkS5VRHbnA8/WdEeC6-TTsI/AAAAAAAATmU/3K-MejE2cxoFN0KtBIIjFy2AimdPFGZmwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Northern Peru is located in the Atacama, the world's driest desert. Rainfall here averages about 15 mm or 1/2 an inch per year. However, this past March there were a huge floods everywhere - see a very interesting photo story <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2017/03/peru-suffers-worst-flooding-in-decades/520146/" target="_blank">here</a> that ran in <b>The Atlantic</b> magazine. The light-colored material climbing the volcanic rocks in the background is wind-blown sand.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b-gX3KAoKN8/WdEeou9NGNI/AAAAAAAAToE/R5Ux-VLOKx8fJzG-Wn49_rMhH5kjS-50ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b-gX3KAoKN8/WdEeou9NGNI/AAAAAAAAToE/R5Ux-VLOKx8fJzG-Wn49_rMhH5kjS-50ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Surprisingly, or perhaps not, this region is Peru's largest sugar and rice growing area. Both of these crops are water-intensive and the normally big rivers coming out of the Andes are now dewatered by the time they reach the coast. Here are sugar plantations of which we saw mile after mile after mile while touring here.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-33i_IzZcE0o/WdEeJoLUp3I/AAAAAAAATmc/_Z2AxDNePBQdshVMJ8-N8xJDn1auUfQqACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="727" height="460" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-33i_IzZcE0o/WdEeJoLUp3I/AAAAAAAATmc/_Z2AxDNePBQdshVMJ8-N8xJDn1auUfQqACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Our journey begins in Peru's third largest city, Trujillo. The Colonial buildings are being restored and are wonderfully painted.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5O6-TifQucc/WdEeJ2UOQoI/AAAAAAAATmk/HoVh71JbwkMME_UnbpCzkkZCSvvF89kHwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5O6-TifQucc/WdEeJ2UOQoI/AAAAAAAATmk/HoVh71JbwkMME_UnbpCzkkZCSvvF89kHwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>More Colonial buildings on the Plaza Mayor.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PTtXCsRtQ_Q/WdEeKsSF6AI/AAAAAAAATmo/9RFdllfpH0wZo7_FD_21ddoG8uv-rsSTgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="469" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PTtXCsRtQ_Q/WdEeKsSF6AI/AAAAAAAATmo/9RFdllfpH0wZo7_FD_21ddoG8uv-rsSTgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW024.JPG" width="542" /></a></div>This is a tile arrangement in the lobby of our Trujillo hotel showing a map of the city from the 17th century. It shows that the city was surrounded by a wall with 15 bastions. It was built to protect the city from privateers and pirates.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Myo0CIWGvE/WdEeJhjXCuI/AAAAAAAATmg/wnPB1kDnBsoFYztVcgS8IK9-EP0PiTCfACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="827" height="494" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Myo0CIWGvE/WdEeJhjXCuI/AAAAAAAATmg/wnPB1kDnBsoFYztVcgS8IK9-EP0PiTCfACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The cathedral of Trujillo has recently been painted in the colors of the Vatican...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSLQ-CpFnNM/WdEeJtfv_AI/AAAAAAAATmY/dz1EgRHvDY0it5ZdlqS-y6yJmU99WEthQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSLQ-CpFnNM/WdEeJtfv_AI/AAAAAAAATmY/dz1EgRHvDY0it5ZdlqS-y6yJmU99WEthQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW022.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>...because on January 20, 2018, Pope Francis will visit the city.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZCgC9yAZFk/WdFXiopMGVI/AAAAAAAATo8/CcHEYryUnOk1JLPC-5mhcqeZSjopfAQCwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-10-01%2Bat%2B3.59.33%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1000" height="472" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZCgC9yAZFk/WdFXiopMGVI/AAAAAAAATo8/CcHEYryUnOk1JLPC-5mhcqeZSjopfAQCwCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-10-01%2Bat%2B3.59.33%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>This is a picture of the same cathedral I took in December, 1995.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-spbCue9gtEA/WdEeYnEHJ7I/AAAAAAAATms/DRCCDoxUBP8jEoeHsmQsRSF6MpqIwBm8ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="887" height="450" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-spbCue9gtEA/WdEeYnEHJ7I/AAAAAAAATms/DRCCDoxUBP8jEoeHsmQsRSF6MpqIwBm8ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The cathedral at night taken from a portico in our hotel.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbYQiV3bh8A/WdEedTkxDhI/AAAAAAAATmw/EzhiEa-muy8GfMOEgH8Cy0ziTA7hJ0g0wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="920" height="416" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbYQiV3bh8A/WdEedTkxDhI/AAAAAAAATmw/EzhiEa-muy8GfMOEgH8Cy0ziTA7hJ0g0wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A map of the Moche River valley where the Huaca del Sol y de La Luna is located (Shrine of the Sun and the Moon). This was a principle Moche site from 200 to 800 AD, although every river valley coming out of the Andes had a major Moche site associated with it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jUO2sCcgfT4/WdEedtZ1hQI/AAAAAAAATm0/CqM9EO17NhUqdhkHy1ygdiQMza9N9G60wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jUO2sCcgfT4/WdEedtZ1hQI/AAAAAAAATm0/CqM9EO17NhUqdhkHy1ygdiQMza9N9G60wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Walking up to the Huaca de La Luna.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eAwaKglQvMs/WdEedlyAFxI/AAAAAAAATm8/28Il2oSTutg1cahmarxv_1nSfUYFKGu9gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eAwaKglQvMs/WdEedlyAFxI/AAAAAAAATm8/28Il2oSTutg1cahmarxv_1nSfUYFKGu9gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The last time I was here was 22 years ago and these frescoes were just being exposed from beneath crumbled walls and wind-blown sand. There are now many linear feet that have been uncovered.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f53bpRRrs_4/WdEed4-ozQI/AAAAAAAATnA/ITtsSrr70boyv_DLuQgf43oG3alWRCdygCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f53bpRRrs_4/WdEed4-ozQI/AAAAAAAATnA/ITtsSrr70boyv_DLuQgf43oG3alWRCdygCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Detail of a fresco.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cvDrgi5iKu4/WdEeeXEUA7I/AAAAAAAATnM/N5N00KkeYiICGEUuPnhIMRWU6_jjQ1pmgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cvDrgi5iKu4/WdEeeXEUA7I/AAAAAAAATnM/N5N00KkeYiICGEUuPnhIMRWU6_jjQ1pmgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It is amazing to think that these were mostly unknown until quite recently and they do give archaeologists a deeper insight into the life ways of the Moche people.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Kpw1FSBzTI/WdEef4KBSVI/AAAAAAAATnc/qNHPNLS16sYZvjMzEXnnpMEN5u3a-ZVrwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="488" data-original-width="816" height="382" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Kpw1FSBzTI/WdEef4KBSVI/AAAAAAAATnc/qNHPNLS16sYZvjMzEXnnpMEN5u3a-ZVrwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is a detail of an interpretive sign that shows the grand plaza. The photos that follow were taken on the floor of the plaza looking at the multi-colored wall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FprTQKgDCt8/WdEeemsvVFI/AAAAAAAATnQ/QS0aCdcScCIjo_HgUIQsfoyjRTTmd1JmgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FprTQKgDCt8/WdEeemsvVFI/AAAAAAAATnQ/QS0aCdcScCIjo_HgUIQsfoyjRTTmd1JmgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>None of this was exposed just 20 years ago.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kk7ODO9KDdc/WdEefZkNMyI/AAAAAAAATnY/5TZ4ucYUuMwGLTCJC2VHOkOrp3zKUDgvwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kk7ODO9KDdc/WdEefZkNMyI/AAAAAAAATnY/5TZ4ucYUuMwGLTCJC2VHOkOrp3zKUDgvwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Some of these were carved out of soft mud while most were made by applying plaster to the wall and shaping the figure.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XHYuo2PM82o/WdEefEYStaI/AAAAAAAATnU/azJOqw8vbo0HgZZsuMvY-UWpjLViGYUaACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XHYuo2PM82o/WdEefEYStaI/AAAAAAAATnU/azJOqw8vbo0HgZZsuMvY-UWpjLViGYUaACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This string of men depicted with a rope around their necks introduces the idea that the Moche, like their Meso and nearby South American cousins - the Maya, Inca and Aztecs - practiced ritualized human sacrifice. For the Moche it was intra-tribal sacrifice where members f their own group were sacrificed. A game using war clubs was initiated whenever the high priests would determine that a sacrifice was needed to appease the gods. When one man knocked the helmet off another and then grabbed him by the hair, a winner and loser was declared. The losers were shepherded to a holding pen for a week or so, then brought out to a sacrificial platform.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QHMygmRuGaA/WdEeeK8byQI/AAAAAAAATnE/e3UObTk-2okm7YPoN8EsvxXUeHv4Q_WqACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QHMygmRuGaA/WdEeeK8byQI/AAAAAAAATnE/e3UObTk-2okm7YPoN8EsvxXUeHv4Q_WqACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This was the Moche sacrificial platform at Huaca de La Luna. The leader waited on the platform while a warrior then carried out the sacrifice.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z_RknCXg3tA/WdEeeWEvQ-I/AAAAAAAATnI/YwJ3L56UZRg71FTIXXCpJ_cfGr8y3iKOACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="676" height="630" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z_RknCXg3tA/WdEeeWEvQ-I/AAAAAAAATnI/YwJ3L56UZRg71FTIXXCpJ_cfGr8y3iKOACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Another interpretive sign showing the ritualized sacrifice. The kneeling person is offering a cup of the victims blood to the leader, which he may drink or discard as he chooses. One wonders how such a ritualized tradition became started. Often, it was El Niño events (flooding) or La Niña events (drought) that would initiate the call for a sacrifice, appealing to the gods to make things "normal." In our modern world with a knowledge of science, it may seem quite strange that "gods" wanted human blood to stop or give rain. I enjoy imagining the deeply held beliefs of our ancestors - their world-view was so different than ours!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--0u_Sj9AyoQ/WdEedQflmmI/AAAAAAAATm4/uRt2FS5-nso5KPWun1v1XuWQ5GjVRQc4gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="1000" height="380" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--0u_Sj9AyoQ/WdEedQflmmI/AAAAAAAATm4/uRt2FS5-nso5KPWun1v1XuWQ5GjVRQc4gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>At the sacrificial site, the bones of victims were found. Apparently, the ritualized sacrifice was discovered with the unveiling of the wall murals - the practice was unknown to the Moche before that time.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-igq63iAXEh8/WdEegxiVv1I/AAAAAAAATng/4xeEuJ7dUZYPx7ggQ_OHq9xH8fB93ir7wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-igq63iAXEh8/WdEegxiVv1I/AAAAAAAATng/4xeEuJ7dUZYPx7ggQ_OHq9xH8fB93ir7wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Up the coast we visited the coastal town of Huanchaco, where reed boats are used for fishing in the Pacific Ocean. A painting in a restaurant depicts such a scene.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWja_YBfdfQ/WdEehMfhAEI/AAAAAAAATnk/xlr6z22FBfA5KgKurPHdZTBpNTSPaTwdgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWja_YBfdfQ/WdEehMfhAEI/AAAAAAAATnk/xlr6z22FBfA5KgKurPHdZTBpNTSPaTwdgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Reed boats on the beach at Huanchaco.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q8SWCcUrrYc/WdEehTeTawI/AAAAAAAATno/UdMBykhgUOI8pj8PdrcYDlq2BJF6mGdhACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q8SWCcUrrYc/WdEehTeTawI/AAAAAAAATno/UdMBykhgUOI8pj8PdrcYDlq2BJF6mGdhACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We had a demonstration from a man who has been building these boats &nbsp;since 1960 (which last about one month before they are too soaked with water to float).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HYnJPZuPWuo/WdEehQG6jII/AAAAAAAATns/iDPm985-8SojGEpHmyPsc3M4VrDf6PxRgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HYnJPZuPWuo/WdEehQG6jII/AAAAAAAATns/iDPm985-8SojGEpHmyPsc3M4VrDf6PxRgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Junior getting ready to take the boat out.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V_z9EIec0pA/WdEeoHrSwCI/AAAAAAAATnw/zY6sVO86Y3QM0zNZq9-beZT-8-zziMlEACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V_z9EIec0pA/WdEeoHrSwCI/AAAAAAAATnw/zY6sVO86Y3QM0zNZq9-beZT-8-zziMlEACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The next ruin was called El Brujo, meaning The Wizard because Peruvians held shamanic rites here before it was dug scientifically. This platform however is called the Huaca de La Señora e Cao, as an important female burial was discovered here in 2006.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hiH-bJcwiME/WdEfzMvBTmI/AAAAAAAATok/oLjYBr1TU08ucEawQq3L7YAHvC0sMtmKwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="937" height="272" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hiH-bJcwiME/WdEfzMvBTmI/AAAAAAAATok/oLjYBr1TU08ucEawQq3L7YAHvC0sMtmKwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Interpretive sign showing the huaca during its time of occupation.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o3LOQsIvLpE/WdEfzKEBfjI/AAAAAAAATog/ExYb-E8Qp6U89GiZ_Jm4aPr58ts-CQhaACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="251" data-original-width="905" height="176" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o3LOQsIvLpE/WdEfzKEBfjI/AAAAAAAATog/ExYb-E8Qp6U89GiZ_Jm4aPr58ts-CQhaACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Cross-section through the huaca. Note that these are shelled pyramids like the Mayan temples in Yucatan. Each successive building covered the earlier platform such that there are numerous platform mounds set inside each other. At Huaca de La Señora de Cao there are seven platforms, each one younger than the one it covers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ePjyoV2K-7M/WdEeoqq2oyI/AAAAAAAATn8/0PciH5T0lYIkxjSZBJwDOW0Mqrj7YatzACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ePjyoV2K-7M/WdEeoqq2oyI/AAAAAAAATn8/0PciH5T0lYIkxjSZBJwDOW0Mqrj7YatzACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Detail of a wall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQk1u8YMYu0/WdEeoohR8rI/AAAAAAAAToA/BOzKIZSuYcU3wfIdItK0ts6LiO7LxzxRwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQk1u8YMYu0/WdEeoohR8rI/AAAAAAAAToA/BOzKIZSuYcU3wfIdItK0ts6LiO7LxzxRwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is a view of the Huaca El Brujo, with the waves of the Pacific Ocean in the background. All of the pock marks in the valley floor is where looting occurred prior to the excavations. Peru has a national campaign against indigenous-area looting now and many citizens are now against grave robbery.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YNHdVe2yhGM/WdEepFxesqI/AAAAAAAAToI/bG4z7CRQmwYnryfNaKczQWFTV5LPBiB-QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YNHdVe2yhGM/WdEepFxesqI/AAAAAAAAToI/bG4z7CRQmwYnryfNaKczQWFTV5LPBiB-QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Wonderfully preserved mural wall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X2AucNwoII4/WdEeqMyUFuI/AAAAAAAAToM/yVT5AORZtTU34JKHlvLntkAATlmwJ3jSQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X2AucNwoII4/WdEeqMyUFuI/AAAAAAAAToM/yVT5AORZtTU34JKHlvLntkAATlmwJ3jSQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Painted wall with birds.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h0dBB6f9qxA/WdEepuJjlgI/AAAAAAAAToQ/31iSfTCoUi8LMFz7p49MxcNbTegi8LmsgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h0dBB6f9qxA/WdEepuJjlgI/AAAAAAAAToQ/31iSfTCoUi8LMFz7p49MxcNbTegi8LmsgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the tomb of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lady_of_Cao" target="_blank">Lady of Cao</a>, discovered and unearthed in only 2006. Prior to this discovery, the role females in Moche society was little known. But she must have been an important person with the amount of adornment surrounding her in the tomb.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zT0wm3BGi4k/WdEeqlrFFpI/AAAAAAAAToU/dPxJ-TZxMywt1EZvnvD8yhbbXK65fAIswCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zT0wm3BGi4k/WdEeqlrFFpI/AAAAAAAAToU/dPxJ-TZxMywt1EZvnvD8yhbbXK65fAIswCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A reconstruction of the face of the Lady of Cao, using modern forensic science.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E4ZbHU9hVhY/WdEeq_5cY9I/AAAAAAAAToY/BzP31yoNtg4-NwEEvW--4UoxXfAPPpnlACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BATW035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E4ZbHU9hVhY/WdEeq_5cY9I/AAAAAAAAToY/BzP31yoNtg4-NwEEvW--4UoxXfAPPpnlACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BATW035.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>A Peruvian hairless dog. We saw many of these on the North Coast.<br /><br />Next stop - Easter Island.</div></div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-27235840219206160322017-09-27T13:11:00.000-07:002017-09-27T13:11:09.118-07:00Fourth and Final Colorado River Trip in Grand Canyon - 2017I am just back from a wonderful 10-day river trip in Grand Canyon with the Grand Canyon Association Field Institute. Only 12 persons and great weather and many stops along the way. Enjoy the pictures!<br /><br />***And my 24 day Private Jet trip Around the World begins September 27 so please check back for updates from the North Coast of Peru, Easter Island, American Samoa, the Great Barrier Reef Australia, Angkor Wat Cambodia, Taj Majal, Petra, Serengeti Plains, and Marrakech, Morocco! See the full itinerary <a href="https://www.tcsworldtravel.com/expedition/around-the-world-2018/2018/september" target="_blank">here</a>.***<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4nl5JLMUxcI/Wcv_6bVOiII/AAAAAAAATkc/husTT5vfkOIgKv8IKb2LRCFF-d7NGimHQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010277%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4nl5JLMUxcI/Wcv_6bVOiII/AAAAAAAATkc/husTT5vfkOIgKv8IKb2LRCFF-d7NGimHQCLcBGAs/s640/P1010277%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A new stop at river mile 12 reveals this view upstream toward Soap Creek Rapid.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-urCBVUPi8Gs/Wcv_6KntGmI/AAAAAAAATkY/aj8hUeHkT8InAngy_UvesNwxGT5_gwQEgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010280%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-urCBVUPi8Gs/Wcv_6KntGmI/AAAAAAAATkY/aj8hUeHkT8InAngy_UvesNwxGT5_gwQEgCLcBGAs/s640/P1010280%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Professor John Warme of Colorado School of Mines showed me this fantastic fossil stop in the Redwall Limestone near 24-1/2 Mile Rapid.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><ahref bp.blogspot.com="" copy.jpg="" cv_6chtxvi="" https:="" imageanchor="1" ku="" s1600="" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" tkfjpkrjlyargv1js8fybhsucvugclcbgas="" x7_a1notje=""><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0x7_A1nOtJE/Wcv_6ChtXvI/AAAAAAAATkU/PHJ1StKfjPkrjlyarGv1js8fybHSucvugCLcBGAs/s640/P1010286%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></ahref></div>Fossil coral in the Redwall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qy_Sw1wHQs8/Wcv_6jXz3jI/AAAAAAAATkg/3tBZzHLiPwIi5zIngR5PhtwTFxBuE48awCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010289%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qy_Sw1wHQs8/Wcv_6jXz3jI/AAAAAAAATkg/3tBZzHLiPwIi5zIngR5PhtwTFxBuE48awCLcBGAs/s640/P1010289%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Alternate light and dark colored beds in the Redwall Limestone near South Canyon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MM0KJfS-5c8/Wcv_69GoXTI/AAAAAAAATkk/QiUDy5mXlBUlopvBjKuecxzA4iwKxDt4ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010295%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MM0KJfS-5c8/Wcv_69GoXTI/AAAAAAAATkk/QiUDy5mXlBUlopvBjKuecxzA4iwKxDt4ACLcBGAs/s640/P1010295%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It's autumn so the tarantulas are on the move.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QQRj5MBZjBo/Wcv_7M_Ij8I/AAAAAAAATks/UsEaRIxH_jMJcJnAYu3edTNF98yB-2p7ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010317%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QQRj5MBZjBo/Wcv_7M_Ij8I/AAAAAAAATks/UsEaRIxH_jMJcJnAYu3edTNF98yB-2p7ACLcBGAs/s640/P1010317%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Redwall Cavern at river mile 33.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MMoTuCCZTH4/Wcv_7b-29MI/AAAAAAAATkw/RX5hkTeBCewZivHNPukxgMnKoGtKPumCQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010321%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MMoTuCCZTH4/Wcv_7b-29MI/AAAAAAAATkw/RX5hkTeBCewZivHNPukxgMnKoGtKPumCQCLcBGAs/s640/P1010321%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A fossil crinoid in A boulder at Redwall cavern.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hUyWh6fQWA/Wcv_7sxjdPI/AAAAAAAATk0/vURKtuDt38I01fZvyx6fofVAooMRnmWeACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010348%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hUyWh6fQWA/Wcv_7sxjdPI/AAAAAAAATk0/vURKtuDt38I01fZvyx6fofVAooMRnmWeACLcBGAs/s640/P1010348%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We had some rain but it wasn't a deal breaker. It was just enough to usher in the autumn season.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p4a9u6udA5Y/Wcv_7w_BRTI/AAAAAAAATk4/vImZo6lYTYk-THBJNEiGAZj1NuG32HpgACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010351%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p4a9u6udA5Y/Wcv_7w_BRTI/AAAAAAAATk4/vImZo6lYTYk-THBJNEiGAZj1NuG32HpgACLcBGAs/s640/P1010351%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Writing in the guidebooks in the evening after a day of exploring.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AuAYa3KEfY4/Wcv_7-s_TzI/AAAAAAAATk8/lm613iSRy3IAHdrcult0gjPP2IG0Lg6EACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010362%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AuAYa3KEfY4/Wcv_7-s_TzI/AAAAAAAATk8/lm613iSRy3IAHdrcult0gjPP2IG0Lg6EACLcBGAs/s640/P1010362%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Comanch Point towers over the upper Tanner Beach.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wSresf-2iDU/Wcv_8Co6GDI/AAAAAAAATlA/vUg-Nuz55lMMGRVWigKB-iWehd3J4R9PwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010368%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wSresf-2iDU/Wcv_8Co6GDI/AAAAAAAATlA/vUg-Nuz55lMMGRVWigKB-iWehd3J4R9PwCLcBGAs/s640/P1010368%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sand and grass on the Tanner Beach.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lRFzE648KoQ/Wcv_8sWOq6I/AAAAAAAATlE/SAhjR4zlKIQFnvnUznUdOmnthG1XfhKOgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010379%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lRFzE648KoQ/Wcv_8sWOq6I/AAAAAAAATlE/SAhjR4zlKIQFnvnUznUdOmnthG1XfhKOgCLcBGAs/s640/P1010379%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>View of Tanner Rapid.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9uXLA4SM7o/Wcv_80RNXzI/AAAAAAAATlI/aP6LBCbz6owJaDvMqcmc47utGPfuY0QwACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010384%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9uXLA4SM7o/Wcv_80RNXzI/AAAAAAAATlI/aP6LBCbz6owJaDvMqcmc47utGPfuY0QwACLcBGAs/s640/P1010384%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A boulder of the Nankoweap Formation, the least known rock unit in Grand Canyon. Only 300 feet thick and in the most inaccessible depths of the canyon, I have never really looked at this un it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v94L41a3l6U/Wcv_8wMh2iI/AAAAAAAATlM/e5aH0NmlImcCl1pHN92neqWJRPM1temCgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010401%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v94L41a3l6U/Wcv_8wMh2iI/AAAAAAAATlM/e5aH0NmlImcCl1pHN92neqWJRPM1temCgCLcBGAs/s640/P1010401%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Well-rendered petroglyphs on a river boulder.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5WN3_VI9tUE/Wcv_9B7NlzI/AAAAAAAATlQ/jfd-3CkcPOggExCAG9Sewt6DXdtbX2aoACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010415%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5WN3_VI9tUE/Wcv_9B7NlzI/AAAAAAAATlQ/jfd-3CkcPOggExCAG9Sewt6DXdtbX2aoACLcBGAs/s640/P1010415%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The contact of the orange Hakatai Shale and overlying Shinumo Quartzite near Hance Rapid. These rocks are part of the Grand Canyon Supergroup.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8S0hPYS2q_0/Wcv_9J55BvI/AAAAAAAATlU/E5h7AuaacHAgqL2ODTcoqXlHgPKfICLiQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010422%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8S0hPYS2q_0/Wcv_9J55BvI/AAAAAAAATlU/E5h7AuaacHAgqL2ODTcoqXlHgPKfICLiQCLcBGAs/s640/P1010422%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The well-photographed dike within the Hakatai Shale above Hance Rapid.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7D7z4PVbzNo/Wcv_9cvf-oI/AAAAAAAATlY/V7wWwFZYUQUIdECK9f2VeQGP0973t_bZwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010423%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7D7z4PVbzNo/Wcv_9cvf-oI/AAAAAAAATlY/V7wWwFZYUQUIdECK9f2VeQGP0973t_bZwCLcBGAs/s640/P1010423%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Another little seen rock unit - the Hotauta Conglomerate - forms the base of the Grand Canyon Supergroup.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BEzCJF3GNPQ/WcwAAxl3dQI/AAAAAAAATl4/maK-Z0MKxQUSQLwC_hblc_K1Pt-XWmaVQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010431%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BEzCJF3GNPQ/WcwAAxl3dQI/AAAAAAAATl4/maK-Z0MKxQUSQLwC_hblc_K1Pt-XWmaVQCLcBGAs/s640/P1010431%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Super varnished river cobble and Vishnu Schist above Bright Angel Creek.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-usK3bDBss2M/Wcv_9gs9JdI/AAAAAAAATlc/8R38Em8JOiQKbqPXilPhVmZ0g8LjiG4WgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010488%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-usK3bDBss2M/Wcv_9gs9JdI/AAAAAAAATlc/8R38Em8JOiQKbqPXilPhVmZ0g8LjiG4WgCLcBGAs/s640/P1010488%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This beautifully patterned Grand Canyon.rattlesnake <i><a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=dAl0PDkZDkEC&amp;pg=PA170&amp;lpg=PA170&amp;dq=(Crotalus+organus+abyssus)&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=q6SQSxbYT-&amp;sig=8eTHHgBJGeU46IYgfN7XY71DXwY&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=0ahUKEwikoNrulMbWAhUJiFQKHaH8DJgQ6AEIKDAA#v=onepage&amp;q=(Crotalus%20organus%20abyssus)&amp;f=false" target="_blank">(Crotalus organus abyssus)</a></i> never moved from its place in the 13 hours we were at this camp.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pwrip1dfU9E/Wcv_98FsnOI/AAAAAAAATlg/IBbfC0efbo4B7bCRF9ZseJ4xdOGNDfPqACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010496%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pwrip1dfU9E/Wcv_98FsnOI/AAAAAAAATlg/IBbfC0efbo4B7bCRF9ZseJ4xdOGNDfPqACLcBGAs/s640/P1010496%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a>We had clear water in the river until Kanab Creek kicked in some brown sediment from the rains up north.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KD-4iX9IwBQ/Wcv_9zIrzgI/AAAAAAAATlk/IqRnrnSsNRgOxdCupSTj6Imrz6cJZhO2ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010500%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KD-4iX9IwBQ/Wcv_9zIrzgI/AAAAAAAATlk/IqRnrnSsNRgOxdCupSTj6Imrz6cJZhO2ACLcBGAs/s640/P1010500%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The eroding sandbanks displayed beautiful <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ripple_marks" target="_blank">climbing ripple marks</a>. These formed in eddies in the preceding November's controlled floods from Glen Canyon Dam. Flow direction to the right.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nDOPuSBeWr8/Wcv_-RTxI9I/AAAAAAAATlo/P81WngOFndIvQe5z0PxJqioEz7AJy54EgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010517%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nDOPuSBeWr8/Wcv_-RTxI9I/AAAAAAAATlo/P81WngOFndIvQe5z0PxJqioEz7AJy54EgCLcBGAs/s640/P1010517%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>At the mouth of Havasu Creek. Note there blue-green water entering the muddy river (bottom).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GOGQsc9Kbpg/Wcv_-XgcKWI/AAAAAAAATls/3UClKLGV3WMW26Ha6CGIUDUkm640MkNxQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010547%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GOGQsc9Kbpg/Wcv_-XgcKWI/AAAAAAAATls/3UClKLGV3WMW26Ha6CGIUDUkm640MkNxQCLcBGAs/s640/P1010547%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Fern grotto in Havasu Creek.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2rOHalpSw18/Wcv_-sde4gI/AAAAAAAATlw/GHy3AlY82IMGy-oUdeHej2hA6jhPiSd0ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010590%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2rOHalpSw18/Wcv_-sde4gI/AAAAAAAATlw/GHy3AlY82IMGy-oUdeHej2hA6jhPiSd0ACLcBGAs/s640/P1010590%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Barrel cactus above Lava Falls Rapid.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqzAs6SM3gw/Wcv_-zygiBI/AAAAAAAATl0/CZpgl9AimQI1uSSzuSh3Bw9bKt1wHNirwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010607%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqzAs6SM3gw/Wcv_-zygiBI/AAAAAAAATl0/CZpgl9AimQI1uSSzuSh3Bw9bKt1wHNirwCLcBGAs/s640/P1010607%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Pumskin Spring travertine wall with colorful growth on it.Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-67606493857831992122017-08-22T09:15:00.002-07:002017-08-24T08:27:00.728-07:00The 2017 North American Eclipse - August 21 - From Near Casper WyomingThis posting is dedicated to Helen Ranney, who is the foremost person I wish I could have shared this experience with. Next time Helen! And...these photos are not astronomer quality but still might give you a sense of the event. [<b>Note</b>: This posting was updated on August 24 with links at the bottom].<br /><br />Finally, eclipse day. All along I had been planning to view the solar eclipse without the noise of other human beings, social animals who seem to incessantly feel the need to communicate feelings and thoughts, even when human events are overshadowed (ha!) by natural ones. Besides <i>seeing</i> the eclipse, I wanted the <i>hear</i> the wind rustle as darkness instantly fell, I wanted to&nbsp;<i>feel</i>&nbsp;the temperature change and&nbsp;<i>sense</i> the magnificence and power of this celestial event. I had the same desire in 1991 and then I drove out into the wilderness of Baja California, then hiked another 3 hours further to an isolated basalt mesa. I imagined that I had no clue what was coming and wanted to know if I could gradually sense that something was coming (I could but not that readily). There, it was easy to slip away into the nothingness and with a cloudless sunny day, I didn't need to move to "a better spot." This time there was some concern about clouds so I needed to have an avenue that ran east-west along the strike (length) of the shadow.<br /><br />As I planned my location, I found a couple of roads that served this purpose. One was US Highway 20 west out of Casper. Then I noticed other dirt roads west of Casper that might be less traveled and also followed the center line. I targeted one of those roads instead of my initial choice of Highway 20.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YUwZgX7Jq3o/WZxDdMBlOyI/AAAAAAAATb0/2iGX5oKZ_AUWXtI8exoZ_iuNsis3Ztw6gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="640" height="434" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YUwZgX7Jq3o/WZxDdMBlOyI/AAAAAAAATb0/2iGX5oKZ_AUWXtI8exoZ_iuNsis3Ztw6gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I figured if I wanted to be alone, what better place that a road called Poison Spider. And the fact that it lead west to the Rattlesnake Hills was perfect. No one would go out there. And I was mostly right.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oitu2LhGI0Q/WZxDjiwyBsI/AAAAAAAATcA/cQir7AO3drINVels2RNSkzUi0G8otAmEQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oitu2LhGI0Q/WZxDjiwyBsI/AAAAAAAATcA/cQir7AO3drINVels2RNSkzUi0G8otAmEQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Eclipse central about 15 miles west of Casper.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c7M4DOv5Yn8/WZxDi25_T0I/AAAAAAAATb4/O5HrLxPT2vYRJ7hFpOmLstAOTFa5UcuIgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c7M4DOv5Yn8/WZxDi25_T0I/AAAAAAAATb4/O5HrLxPT2vYRJ7hFpOmLstAOTFa5UcuIgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A perfect set up. I am on top of a mesa with great views in all directions and no obstructions.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9fYpb3UiDQ/WZxDjNgewWI/AAAAAAAATb8/QYuzJnM1djwYKXk1FYuaHu8mGHfUzKWYACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9fYpb3UiDQ/WZxDjNgewWI/AAAAAAAATb8/QYuzJnM1djwYKXk1FYuaHu8mGHfUzKWYACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sunrise on August 21 - a cloudless and clear day dawned.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vXLgN0XjOc0/WZxDp90fx3I/AAAAAAAATcI/2c4-hcu0SHgWv1sIXDDdnUc3GXqLI-7vgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vXLgN0XjOc0/WZxDp90fx3I/AAAAAAAATcI/2c4-hcu0SHgWv1sIXDDdnUc3GXqLI-7vgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The night before I checked in on a National Weather Service web site and looked at a cloud forecast for August 21. All it showed was a very narrow band of high cirrus that was projected to slice through central Wyoming, obliquely across the center line. It was about as wide as the path of totality but was still only a forecast. I took this shot at 7:30 AM local time and could see what they had been imaging the night before. Note the thicker cloud in the distance (right-center). Hmm?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f3eFOyiJNU8/WZxDpkIbjUI/AAAAAAAATcE/8YSeixc0TisVXhu-aG6R9PmAZp6CnBQcACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f3eFOyiJNU8/WZxDpkIbjUI/AAAAAAAATcE/8YSeixc0TisVXhu-aG6R9PmAZp6CnBQcACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse045.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A little after first contact.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pZuuEu6WfBU/WZxDtD_ntfI/AAAAAAAATcM/-a9s86prGaYrJ0u0t42LyQiaBq4Ls35GwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pZuuEu6WfBU/WZxDtD_ntfI/AAAAAAAATcM/-a9s86prGaYrJ0u0t42LyQiaBq4Ls35GwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Self-portrait of an eclipse junkie.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PNvVH3Fwukc/WZxD7EvjvmI/AAAAAAAATcc/z8jL_epsx_clGERbamrLNwbVAZrIpFBJACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PNvVH3Fwukc/WZxD7EvjvmI/AAAAAAAATcc/z8jL_epsx_clGERbamrLNwbVAZrIpFBJACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is about 10 AM looking west. That darn line of clouds is moving east-southeast along the strike of the path of totality. Damn! Could it? Would it?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SG4QeNF7UIg/WZxD3IfoAHI/AAAAAAAATcU/XOMZfFsV0ek9laLoerLkvWBJmw3UL0KSACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="603" data-original-width="809" height="476" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SG4QeNF7UIg/WZxD3IfoAHI/AAAAAAAATcU/XOMZfFsV0ek9laLoerLkvWBJmw3UL0KSACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse048.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Not quite 50%.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10PXeX682ig/WZxD2Y3x-mI/AAAAAAAATcQ/UphE9KZWFQ8G7cMc6434_csDAu296Z16ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="496" height="474" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10PXeX682ig/WZxD2Y3x-mI/AAAAAAAATcQ/UphE9KZWFQ8G7cMc6434_csDAu296Z16ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse049.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Now at 80%!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPZsNvRgvCA/WZxD6DPGD2I/AAAAAAAATcY/DipOFbk-h2MLc2r0Vkn9Q1pgMgrL69ArgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="385" data-original-width="549" height="448" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPZsNvRgvCA/WZxD6DPGD2I/AAAAAAAATcY/DipOFbk-h2MLc2r0Vkn9Q1pgMgrL69ArgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse051.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is about 98% and about 5 minutes &nbsp;before totality. I cannot emphasize enough that if your maximum eclipse experience looks like the photo above, it will still be 100% different than if you were to move into the path of totality. Pardon the pun but it is like night and day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rftdT2pcE0o/WZxEH5q6STI/AAAAAAAATck/O33peU-fjTsPv_qWWk8P1rFg4zh-ptZgQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rftdT2pcE0o/WZxEH5q6STI/AAAAAAAATck/O33peU-fjTsPv_qWWk8P1rFg4zh-ptZgQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse050.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Looking west at the oncoming darkness. Up to this moment, it had been getting progressively darker. But that persistent cloud that I had noticed just after sunrise had now positioned itself right over me leading up to totality. &nbsp;I had briefly contemplated getting in the car - maybe 40 minutes before totality to try to get out from under the cloud. But I saw that the length of it was parallel to the center line and I would need to go north or south. Although the cloud disrupted any temperature or light observations, I could still see the sun through the high cirrus. You win some and you lose some.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxitGbamxl0/WZxENBppI_I/AAAAAAAATco/QIYLtOTHL5ws4HP5PIChKCEsTkNFKjM6QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxitGbamxl0/WZxENBppI_I/AAAAAAAATco/QIYLtOTHL5ws4HP5PIChKCEsTkNFKjM6QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse052.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It's really coming now! You can see the shadow to the west.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YtpdJlmgFtI/WZxEWu9zDnI/AAAAAAAATcs/mVRerGSXL7k_wu8VeAlebF_e7jF0x-52QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YtpdJlmgFtI/WZxEWu9zDnI/AAAAAAAATcs/mVRerGSXL7k_wu8VeAlebF_e7jF0x-52QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse054.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>And then, in a flash, it got dark! Totality - the entire disk of the sun was blocked by the passing moon. I was struck by how sudden the darkness came - it was a specific moment - bang! In 1991 I recall more of a transition into totality (that one was seven minutes long). This was sudden and in an instant I felt joy and jubilation. I started to exclaim loudly "Wow" "WOW!" Everything that came out of me was intense and spontaneous. I thought briefly of our ancient ancestors (in this case Plains Indians) who would have been taken totally by surprise at such an event. And the stories they might have invented to explain it. (Forbid the person who stole his neighbors cow or slept with his wife's sister the night before - imagine!) So many inventions by humans to explain the unknown. All of these thoughts quickly gave way to the joy of known explanations we enjoy today. Sheer jubilation overcame me at the wondrous site of our moon eclipsing the sun.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tLy-RD6EIuA/WZxEFr-qUmI/AAAAAAAATcg/PHljiL0ELpAaTa3rkW6rWaT8jmlSRvd1gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="636" height="462" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tLy-RD6EIuA/WZxEFr-qUmI/AAAAAAAATcg/PHljiL0ELpAaTa3rkW6rWaT8jmlSRvd1gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I had been so taken by the change in light on the ground that it took me a moment to look up at the moon. Gazing up I saw the totality - no filters on this one.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4dP5YLLQrMM/WZxEc7lyALI/AAAAAAAATcw/ZUsz1U5lH9M-SGKSXZB_ZSD_JV2QfloHACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4dP5YLLQrMM/WZxEc7lyALI/AAAAAAAATcw/ZUsz1U5lH9M-SGKSXZB_ZSD_JV2QfloHACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse055.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>View to the east at totality.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S6gSOji8TsI/WZxEhC_8CnI/AAAAAAAATc0/07dOmi5GTuc2adyEfmgwGI4TdwBZ8I_vgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S6gSOji8TsI/WZxEhC_8CnI/AAAAAAAATc0/07dOmi5GTuc2adyEfmgwGI4TdwBZ8I_vgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse056.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>View to the west.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VyaAZ28EYgw/WZxRAn0sEgI/AAAAAAAATeA/VOEJ_VoYTI0rDs5cK9Uh29ZKFs9RsZUtgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2759%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VyaAZ28EYgw/WZxRAn0sEgI/AAAAAAAATeA/VOEJ_VoYTI0rDs5cK9Uh29ZKFs9RsZUtgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2759%2Bcopy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Note the tiny speck of Venus that appeared to the west of the eclipsing moon. I saw others stars and planets as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9aGt1dWfEA/WZxExDELSTI/AAAAAAAATc8/avWmI__jFUoRvXF_0I0QU1RIf88VfwxowCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9aGt1dWfEA/WZxExDELSTI/AAAAAAAATc8/avWmI__jFUoRvXF_0I0QU1RIf88VfwxowCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse058.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>In 1991 I scratched the date into a basalt boulder. Here is the date on a slab of Morrison Formation sandstone at my eclipse spot. It as well worth the trip to see this eclipse.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_mIOfrvQwIM/WZxEmcNur7I/AAAAAAAATc4/AbGJ7hkd2bEViAIuJjtBxmoXqGmDNGArQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_mIOfrvQwIM/WZxEmcNur7I/AAAAAAAATc4/AbGJ7hkd2bEViAIuJjtBxmoXqGmDNGArQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse059.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>At 2 PM I took this picture of the high cirrus cloud I had been "playing tag with" all day. Here it is far southwest of Casper.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wZl82zfWdl8/WZxE5FvWgqI/AAAAAAAATdA/I0n41wmNHeoZWvjUD-8CyNnlhfulKP3wwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wZl82zfWdl8/WZxE5FvWgqI/AAAAAAAATdA/I0n41wmNHeoZWvjUD-8CyNnlhfulKP3wwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse060.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>What would a visit to the Cowboy State be without cows. Lots of cows.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4muOxaqNeJI/WZxE6zZ0nzI/AAAAAAAATdE/4ehHFqnEQwQwRENGf2Zzd2NXUem6lJlegCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4muOxaqNeJI/WZxE6zZ0nzI/AAAAAAAATdE/4ehHFqnEQwQwRENGf2Zzd2NXUem6lJlegCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse061.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Close-up of a cow-lick.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cjebJQdSbLk/WZxFCIZY0pI/AAAAAAAATdI/fDzGyweuAVgmeMH0t3GsPmYQMCp4fYOHgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cjebJQdSbLk/WZxFCIZY0pI/AAAAAAAATdI/fDzGyweuAVgmeMH0t3GsPmYQMCp4fYOHgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse062.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On my way southwest of Casper, I followed the Oregon and California Trails.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OFPOsirDSZo/WZxFEofBDyI/AAAAAAAATdM/NwApnkD83dU43bIOMThmr10gijfnRy78QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OFPOsirDSZo/WZxFEofBDyI/AAAAAAAATdM/NwApnkD83dU43bIOMThmr10gijfnRy78QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse063.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is Independence Rock along modern-day Wyoming State Highway 220. Note the people climbing to the top of the 136-foot tall granite monolith.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPp_LDkCrrU/WZxFMVqPdkI/AAAAAAAATdQ/n8O9x0n-Is82GdArq-K9ykwRL1socwRTACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPp_LDkCrrU/WZxFMVqPdkI/AAAAAAAATdQ/n8O9x0n-Is82GdArq-K9ykwRL1socwRTACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse064.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Historic inscriptions were found everywhere on top.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YM9zaKF7x04/WZxFRWyHMoI/AAAAAAAATdU/fudNHtpgB3QPeEhG0N-msJXchX3QFGJKQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YM9zaKF7x04/WZxFRWyHMoI/AAAAAAAATdU/fudNHtpgB3QPeEhG0N-msJXchX3QFGJKQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse065.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>View to the north from the top of the rock out toward the Granite Mountains.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cptW15dSYY/WZxFUjF6HpI/AAAAAAAATdY/JHnL9rZ31D8uuEpeLYtAn3HkYLZ5er2VwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cptW15dSYY/WZxFUjF6HpI/AAAAAAAATdY/JHnL9rZ31D8uuEpeLYtAn3HkYLZ5er2VwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse066.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Note the line at the base of the rock delineating where lichens grow (above) and the zone void of lichens (below). There used to be dirt and rock around the base of Independence Rock but it has been pounded, shoveled, otherwise and removed by at least 170 years of intense foot traffic.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fs6gsV91VwA/WZxFY4mZiZI/AAAAAAAATdg/6cdZWDZ9HM0YL7k6J8aEICXx06GX8iO3gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fs6gsV91VwA/WZxFY4mZiZI/AAAAAAAATdg/6cdZWDZ9HM0YL7k6J8aEICXx06GX8iO3gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse067.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Devil's Gate is the next attraction traveler's on the two trails encountered. The Sweetwater River was laid down in to this formerly buried ridge of granite (in geologic time), forming a 1/4 mile long deep gorge. Anything not easily explained or understood by early travelers was often ascribed to the devil. But on an interpretive sign, it was told that at least one woman pioneer wrote in her journal that it should have been called 'Heaven's Gate' since it was so beautiful to admire. Wyoming has done an excellent job with roadside interpretive signs and stops. Arizona seems to be too much like California in that the point of driving is to get through it. Here, the land and history seems to be the reason.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7O2oeBSX70Y/WZxFjlQJjsI/AAAAAAAATdo/MvPJ4LwnoJkyyOJAeAEjyPZv4vxYN0qLgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7O2oeBSX70Y/WZxFjlQJjsI/AAAAAAAATdo/MvPJ4LwnoJkyyOJAeAEjyPZv4vxYN0qLgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse069.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There are numerous <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pediment_(geology)" target="_blank">pediments</a> of weather gravel that surround the base of the Granite Mountain and here is shot of the material in the pediment.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0KT47jwQUbk/WZxFYxT2eKI/AAAAAAAATdc/hVa3LhMNqWg6FDqn1glmYDhV9bZOfwBlACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0KT47jwQUbk/WZxFYxT2eKI/AAAAAAAATdc/hVa3LhMNqWg6FDqn1glmYDhV9bZOfwBlACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse068.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The wide open spaces....<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fgxiyH94e-8/WZxFjeTt7HI/AAAAAAAATdk/MjHDHMc-uPsiY5zl2ovm8Ft4uiZ5b0iXwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fgxiyH94e-8/WZxFjeTt7HI/AAAAAAAATdk/MjHDHMc-uPsiY5zl2ovm8Ft4uiZ5b0iXwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse070.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>...soon turned into huge traffic jams. This is where US Highway 287 (leading from Jackson Hole to points south) encounters the isolated Wyoming state highway I was traveling on. View to the south toward Muddy Gap where the junction is located. This was a five-mile back-up that delayed my trip by about an hour.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WsjipFOq4Zo/WZxFjwWPZxI/AAAAAAAATds/MJthxeeDYyk2T5-N9f8Y8E-rfWSbMNg4wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WsjipFOq4Zo/WZxFjwWPZxI/AAAAAAAATds/MJthxeeDYyk2T5-N9f8Y8E-rfWSbMNg4wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse071.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Fortunately, I was headed west on US 287 to the Wind River Range and against the traffic (once I passed the junction). This back-up headed to toward Salt Lake and Denver was about 8 miles long.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JKSb0OZzJzU/WZxFnYIo5nI/AAAAAAAATdw/8eJ8NXrjv40Palovdl_1ReasYHVMy70uQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JKSb0OZzJzU/WZxFnYIo5nI/AAAAAAAATdw/8eJ8NXrjv40Palovdl_1ReasYHVMy70uQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse072.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Thanks for reading! Off on a hike now in the Wind River Range.<br /><br /><b>Update</b>: See an article from the Denver Post with statistics on traffic snarls leaving the eclipse <a href="http://www.denverpost.com/2017/08/22/solar-eclipse-wyoming-most-traffic-record/" target="_blank">here</a>. Finally, if you find yourself wondering why someone would drive 890 miles to capture an extra 35% of eclipse, check out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayVm441iZfo" target="_blank">this Ted Talk</a> that is only 12 minutes long. These things are awe-inspiring (old usage).Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-81379084580406252342017-08-20T17:39:00.002-07:002017-08-20T17:39:30.869-07:00The North American Eclipse - Day 2This posting is dedicated to my friend Jack Share. He'll know why about mid-point down.<br /><br />I'm in Crazy Casper, a little eclipse outpost in central Wyoming. There are tons of people. I'm just about ready to head out of town to my selected site. We are within 18 hours now. The time has come. The next time I report back in here, it will be over. The weather right now is mostly cloudy with puffy summer clouds. It looks like a localized thunder cell is developing west of town. Right where I am headed. This is good news - it will scare off the not so serious among the throngs. B oy, have I seen a lot of them today.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6xm6RpYFfro/WZog4659K-I/AAAAAAAATaM/nuwKGTDNQ-MdHZ446v56mroBw2NJLWLkgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6xm6RpYFfro/WZog4659K-I/AAAAAAAATaM/nuwKGTDNQ-MdHZ446v56mroBw2NJLWLkgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Started out at the Wyoming State Prison State Park. I saw this on the Wyoming atlas and it sounded interesting. It was beyond that. The far wing was built in 1873 for $30,000. It was restored in 1990 for $5,000,000. It is a beautiful building on the outside.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C9Av4tV52jo/WZog4a2DeYI/AAAAAAAATaE/kGxPMbKP0-gF9zSpCuq04YwBhrbAzRSQwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C9Av4tV52jo/WZog4a2DeYI/AAAAAAAATaE/kGxPMbKP0-gF9zSpCuq04YwBhrbAzRSQwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Remember Chuck with the broken vehicle in my first posting (you can view it&nbsp;<a href="http://earthly-musings.blogspot.com/2017/08/chasing-2017-north-american-eclipse.html" target="_blank">here</a>)? He and his wife finally got a rental vehicle in Moab and drove on up. I met them both at the prison and we toured it together.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rGZ0Vt3GMRo/WZog4om_MEI/AAAAAAAATaI/nPevRG5Rn-YSkw1FPlF__eBKyEOlsaIzgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rGZ0Vt3GMRo/WZog4om_MEI/AAAAAAAATaI/nPevRG5Rn-YSkw1FPlF__eBKyEOlsaIzgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse019.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>&nbsp;This would have been a very bleak existence. The floors and walls are made of steel and it gets very cold in the winter in Laramie.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RXIw9l2C7zA/WZog95KaSzI/AAAAAAAATaQ/F4CogRIvYLEYNg6ojilOJtTvUtY6350ggCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RXIw9l2C7zA/WZog95KaSzI/AAAAAAAATaQ/F4CogRIvYLEYNg6ojilOJtTvUtY6350ggCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Close-up of a lock on a cell.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OsSsj6YTF7k/WZog-tTOnvI/AAAAAAAATaU/9e0-_4FrhdIu80sIe9OKBb_GbeZwxZK9gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OsSsj6YTF7k/WZog-tTOnvI/AAAAAAAATaU/9e0-_4FrhdIu80sIe9OKBb_GbeZwxZK9gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse021.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>This gentleman is in for stealing three quilts, four blankets, four pairs of underwear, a coat and odds and ends. Actually, he is an out-of-state summer resident &nbsp;who has volunteered here during the season and has learned the history of the place. He was a wealth of information. This is the "newer" wing of the prison built in the 1890's. The cells are 5'X7' and have two hammocks and two wooden stools. he night-soil bucket is the only other thing in the cell. Prisoners were not generally incarcerated that long - one two or four years. The guy who stole the household items got four years for it. Murderers sometimes got two years. Go figure.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jge9APIJTYM/WZog_fsKEXI/AAAAAAAATaY/0aah6pSdBygZpc01CPlpPsXCbdA7AxHmACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jge9APIJTYM/WZog_fsKEXI/AAAAAAAATaY/0aah6pSdBygZpc01CPlpPsXCbdA7AxHmACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Ball and chain. Incredible to think that the building was deteriorating before local citizens decided to save it. The exhibits are very well done and it is well worth a visit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NnevPVJG7GA/WZohGCdS7JI/AAAAAAAATak/jfB52y6_U0Yg7eswrQ9Bb7P9h1OkgskqACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NnevPVJG7GA/WZohGCdS7JI/AAAAAAAATak/jfB52y6_U0Yg7eswrQ9Bb7P9h1OkgskqACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;The Ivinson House is now home to the Laramie Plains Museum. It was closed today. Time to get out of town and go and an eclipse!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A4teKjEbhwg/WZohFkC6sQI/AAAAAAAATac/WHHhOrTsErMSx_bNnHLv1_nZZIMT5Ha0wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="1200" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A4teKjEbhwg/WZohFkC6sQI/AAAAAAAATac/WHHhOrTsErMSx_bNnHLv1_nZZIMT5Ha0wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>North of Laramie looking southwest across the plains the Snowy Range. The feeling of openness is astounding out here and I found myself thinking of the Plains Indians all along the 148 miles to Casper.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-of0IVIYZEhQ/WZohGP8_EXI/AAAAAAAATag/qIB2QUxZ4XUP-oDvK83BoYughU-GJH17gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="1164" height="402" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-of0IVIYZEhQ/WZohGP8_EXI/AAAAAAAATag/qIB2QUxZ4XUP-oDvK83BoYughU-GJH17gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;The Union Pacific follows the highway here and this is a very old historic route ac ross the plains.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3_4PRDyyFw8/WZohLjTpEkI/AAAAAAAATao/vlnwHgcD8UgV9_cL8wlMtEd111eo_8xjgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3_4PRDyyFw8/WZohLjTpEkI/AAAAAAAATao/vlnwHgcD8UgV9_cL8wlMtEd111eo_8xjgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the section dedicated to Jack Share because this is a fabulous roadside attraction!</div><br />To my absolute surprise, the road came upon and followed one of the most important and famous line of cliffs known as Como Bluff. The list of dinosaurs found at this locality is truly impressive (see it <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Como_Bluff" target="_blank">here</a>). The story of the discovery of the site is no less interesting and this is where the famous "Dinosaur Wars" commenced between paleontologists Marsh and Cope in the 1880s. One was from from Yale University and the other from the Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences. This is where the famous dinosaur <i>Brontosaurus</i> was first discovered. Don't miss <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brontosaurus" target="_blank">this link</a> about the animal.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nvfr0HA_uhM/WZohQhXPuqI/AAAAAAAATaw/-JOQsfczBBk5zCLceXid6yJGgWs0mF9MgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nvfr0HA_uhM/WZohQhXPuqI/AAAAAAAATaw/-JOQsfczBBk5zCLceXid6yJGgWs0mF9MgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The bluff with the quarries is in the background. The fossil bones come from the dinosaur-rich Morrison Formation.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oJKS_WaE5J0/WZohQdRDjHI/AAAAAAAATas/VBZjAVMGkscVHuhBb-XUZ9Iw6eVMHQ0lgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="794" data-original-width="1200" height="422" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oJKS_WaE5J0/WZohQdRDjHI/AAAAAAAATas/VBZjAVMGkscVHuhBb-XUZ9Iw6eVMHQ0lgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Here is the highway sign explaining the significance of the site and it is one of the best desc bribed public signs I have ever encountered.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQPT_3f4Lzk/WZoh-D6gukI/AAAAAAAATa8/tpAibpCpXDkae6T_M0ROqeSXyoay0L71wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQPT_3f4Lzk/WZoh-D6gukI/AAAAAAAATa8/tpAibpCpXDkae6T_M0ROqeSXyoay0L71wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse029.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>At the site is a building known as the World's Oldest Building.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHqIho41u5w/WZoh-_HyDNI/AAAAAAAATbA/R7xP9aYDfs8ZLIapRLWsrtSV2NuGGaJrgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHqIho41u5w/WZoh-_HyDNI/AAAAAAAATbA/R7xP9aYDfs8ZLIapRLWsrtSV2NuGGaJrgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse030.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>It is made of dinosaur bones quarried locally. The story of the cabin can be read&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wyohistory.org/encyclopedia/fossil-cabin" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MOaZIu0SKyI/WZoh7RUBlcI/AAAAAAAATa4/_zTu_6j_hG0HNst7TtWnG2M6XFDoK8wCQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="781" data-original-width="1185" height="420" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MOaZIu0SKyI/WZoh7RUBlcI/AAAAAAAATa4/_zTu_6j_hG0HNst7TtWnG2M6XFDoK8wCQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A section of the building with Como Bluff in the background. Lots of good stuff to photograph here Jack!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HmQ9HdCiDLY/WZoiDZexITI/AAAAAAAATbE/rZl4SokZ0OMgHhgW1ElbjLLt8bhZufpLACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="1118" height="418" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HmQ9HdCiDLY/WZoiDZexITI/AAAAAAAATbE/rZl4SokZ0OMgHhgW1ElbjLLt8bhZufpLACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The roads (rail and auto) looking west toward the town of Medicine Bow.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFwrnyV-Svs/WZoiEGpo4HI/AAAAAAAATbI/hLi5UsKwEzorPMHGPVlHC2QItzlI4nklgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFwrnyV-Svs/WZoiEGpo4HI/AAAAAAAATbI/hLi5UsKwEzorPMHGPVlHC2QItzlI4nklgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A giant wind farm takes advantage of the Wyoming wind north of Medicine Bow. There was obvious eclipse traffic now, just 22 hours from the start of totality. Lots of Colorado plates (Denver and Front Range folks), with a smattering of New Mexico and Texas. Saw a few Arizona's too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RNZrlX3lgTw/WZoiEQnfe6I/AAAAAAAATbM/O3VQutzgIgkKiAgVr8xVejb9MNZv-knTgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="1150" height="418" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RNZrlX3lgTw/WZoiEQnfe6I/AAAAAAAATbM/O3VQutzgIgkKiAgVr8xVejb9MNZv-knTgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A steel cut-out of a cowboy patriot. In Laramie I saw a truck with a bumper sticker, "President Trump, Deal With It." It's a different place up here.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aG4N0UP_YXM/WZoiJpctjmI/AAAAAAAATbQ/nbQMVwdgXxggyI4_IS5A5W71Tlg-0J9aACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1164" height="416" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aG4N0UP_YXM/WZoiJpctjmI/AAAAAAAATbQ/nbQMVwdgXxggyI4_IS5A5W71Tlg-0J9aACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse035.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I was now within 30 miles of Casper and was worried that the paved highway coming in from the south might be backed-up. So I spotted a dirt road that went right over the top of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Casper_Mountain" target="_blank">Casper Mountain</a>. It is an anticlinal mountain, squeezed during the Laramide orogeny between 70 and 40 million years ago. That is why the strata are tilted here to the south (view to the east). The rocks are likely the Triassic <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chugwater_Formation" target="_blank">Chugwater Formation</a>, an age-equivalent deposit to the Southwest's Moenkopi Formation.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TxamNFOmZLU/WZoiXdtGeXI/AAAAAAAATbc/Yh7L5TUtVGIm9xFj-5rTv1W4aTMYsFjwQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TxamNFOmZLU/WZoiXdtGeXI/AAAAAAAATbc/Yh7L5TUtVGIm9xFj-5rTv1W4aTMYsFjwQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It turns out that Casper Mountain is really close, if not right along, the <a href="http://www.eclipse2017.org/2017/path_through_the_US.htm" target="_blank">center line</a>. This is the line where the eclipse lasts the longest. The path of totality is about 70 miles wide but if you are at the edge of that, totality will last just seconds. The center line is where you want to be.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdbjyIGVdn8/WZoiVFl_BgI/AAAAAAAATbU/OetOomzY6CUe-kYZc0sRbf1sTXyXoDmxACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdbjyIGVdn8/WZoiVFl_BgI/AAAAAAAATbU/OetOomzY6CUe-kYZc0sRbf1sTXyXoDmxACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Looking down from the top of Casper Mountain at the line of cars lining up.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lB9j4Nyo_k8/WZoiWxrrkII/AAAAAAAATbY/Qm3CZyZtpMIXOKWUK5yw3PbV0VBydzIQwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lB9j4Nyo_k8/WZoiWxrrkII/AAAAAAAATbY/Qm3CZyZtpMIXOKWUK5yw3PbV0VBydzIQwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse038.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Let the craziness begin!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FebR024TT9c/WZoiYtH9OSI/AAAAAAAATbg/7R4EYNbSiGcO1Aot6qRrGidhG5xbT8YwwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="1001" height="464" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FebR024TT9c/WZoiYtH9OSI/AAAAAAAATbg/7R4EYNbSiGcO1Aot6qRrGidhG5xbT8YwwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Downtown Casper. Thanks to the Starbucks here for letting me use their Wi-Fi. That's the last report until after totality. Off to find my spot before dark.<br /><br />Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-34331496720664914012017-08-19T21:25:00.001-07:002017-08-20T08:15:13.834-07:00Chasing the 2017 North American Eclipse I am just back from working and lecturing on an expedition ship in Alaska. The very first time I came back from "The Last Frontier" to the lower 48 from such a gig was in July, 1991. And as soon as I returned home back then, I took a very long road trip to see a total solar eclipse in Baja California. I guess some things never change - even after 26 years, 1 month and 1 week.<br /><br />Yep I am on the trail to the way-to-hyped but not-to-be-missed Great North American Eclipse. Most references leave out the "North" part but when a big shadow across the planet travels a quarter million miles spanning the entire continent, I feel it deserves that larger description.<br /><br />I've been planning this trip for at least four years now. So when the hype about gas stations running out of fuel and 30-mile traffic back-ups in Prinville Oregon began to circulate, I did wonder if I should to begin stress about it. Then I remembered how in 1991 things just kind of moved into place the way they were supposed to. On that trip, I couldn't decide if I was going to drive to watch the eclipse in Mazatlan on the mainland, or do a much wilder and remote trip down the spine of the Baja Peninsula. I fretted for the whole 142 miles from Flagstaff to Phoenix on which way to go. I was trying to guess about the cloud cover. At one point I thought the mainland would be better, 10 minutes later I was leaning toward Baja. It went back and forth like this for 141 miles. As I approached the stack where I-17 meets I-10, I knew I only had a minute to decide. At the last second I thought, "Well, if its cloudy in Baja, at least I'll be in Baja! I took a turn to the west and it turned out great.<br /><br />There was a bit of back and forth about this one too. Stories about thousands and thousands of people cramming along the center line did not go unnoticed. But I had planned a detailed back road route back in early June of this year and as it turned out, I stuck with that. Here is the story of my approach.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6IYb4NN8O4/WZj_BUE8dYI/AAAAAAAATXQ/bnNCDvtDyV0XyBchtievh9pf8axqribyACLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-19%2Bat%2B7.13.33%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="1200" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6IYb4NN8O4/WZj_BUE8dYI/AAAAAAAATXQ/bnNCDvtDyV0XyBchtievh9pf8axqribyACLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-19%2Bat%2B7.13.33%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />I pulled away from Flagstaff on August 18 at 2 PM - only one hour later than planned. I took my time loading the car and did not stress a bit. I soon realized that I would be traveling on five segments of road during this trip. The first segment - south to north from Flagstaff to near Tuba City - would be the shortest at about 70 miles. The second segment was the first west to east one to near Mexican Water, AZ. The third segment took me north again to Moab, Utah where I overnighted. Then I turned east again onto I-70 through Grand Junction and on to Wolcott, Colorado. The fifth and final segment took me north into the promised land - Wyoming and the town of Laramie for night 2.<br /><br />The skies in Arizona were clear as could be - the recent summer rains had scrubbed them clean. There were some puffy clouds and believe it or not, I only stopped once (for five minutes) between Flag and Moab. As I exited Bluff, Utah, I called my friend Chuck since he had mentioned that he might go up to see the eclipse. I wanted to see if he made it out of town or not. When he picked up the phone he was just entering Moab. We chatted a bit and then he said, "Oh oh, that doesn't sound good." Something in his rear transmission case went way bad. Within minutes he was saying, "My trip is over." I told him I'd be there in an hour and a half and could help if need be.<br /><br />As I pulled into Moab I called again. Yep, his car was down and out. So I pulled into a shake shop and got he and wife a chocolate shake. When I caught up with them at the junction of US Highway 191 and the River Road, the tow truck was there and I handed them both those shakes. They were so pleased! Then Chuck said, "Hey, I called my friend Cynthia to ask about a mechanic in town and she said, 'I'm up here in Idaho for the eclipse so just crash at my place - the key is under the yellow pot.' Chuck invited me over too. So instead of camping my first night I set up the cot in her living room and slept indoor with plumbing and air conditioning. Yep, its all going to work out just fine.<br /><br />We had breakfast at the Moab Diner, I said goodbye and was underway at 8:30 AM. My camera was on the passenger seat next to me but I had so far waited to use it. Once the camera comes out, it becomes a different sort of trip. It was scenic enough passing east of Grand Junction, and I just had to stop in Palisade Colorado for some peaches! I got six huge ones for $6 - they are indescribably juicy! I went east through the young lake beds (only 50 million years old!) sliced open by the Grand River (Sorry - I like the original name for this section of the present-day Colorado River). Then at Rifle Colorado, the young lake beds were upturned and much older rocks appeared by Glenwood Springs. It was great to see this large uplift. Just east of Eagle, the beds dipped down again and we were back in younger rocks. Then at Wolcott, the last segment began.<br /><br />I tuned north and drove from State Bridge to near Kremling. This was the only dirt stretch in the whole approach. I took my first picture when the road climbed up above Gore Canyon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KccWkBQuEcs/WZkF-SnAbTI/AAAAAAAATXk/Ch9EKkPyfQ0yFrwv_8N_sze_QNsvH_QZwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KccWkBQuEcs/WZkF-SnAbTI/AAAAAAAATXk/Ch9EKkPyfQ0yFrwv_8N_sze_QNsvH_QZwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Gore Canyon. Note the tracks of the Union Pacific Railroad above the Grand River.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oV_qZ7kABKE/WZkF-sn-ROI/AAAAAAAATXo/b8JRcGhUFwQjEzOzhAM5BqDtIE1Cz4LggCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oV_qZ7kABKE/WZkF-sn-ROI/AAAAAAAATXo/b8JRcGhUFwQjEzOzhAM5BqDtIE1Cz4LggCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>These Precambrian gneisses and schist and essentially the same as the Vishnu Schist in Grand Canyon and part of the Yavapai terrane.<br /><br />So far, I had not detected any "Eclipse traffic." There may have been some but I-70 was not really that busy. When I turned onto US Highway 40 from Kremling toward Steamboat Springs, I was looking for obvious traffic but couldn't detect any. As soon as I began to suspect eclipse traffic, the roads would become quiet again. I suspect what I saw on US Highway 40 was just normal Denver-to Steamboat Springs traffic on a summer Saturday.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IW0-6N-dzXE/WZkH60e5HUI/AAAAAAAATX4/jTIufkxyzTQ2GXbO9GuPs9wcQxb8ywmQACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IW0-6N-dzXE/WZkH60e5HUI/AAAAAAAATX4/jTIufkxyzTQ2GXbO9GuPs9wcQxb8ywmQACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;US Highway 40 west of Kremling Colorado.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVe0yY4jHjA/WZkH6wizh_I/AAAAAAAATX8/BGREldb98IMojpfggkBozLkhkW30GKMpwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="982" height="434" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVe0yY4jHjA/WZkH6wizh_I/AAAAAAAATX8/BGREldb98IMojpfggkBozLkhkW30GKMpwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Wheeler Peak on the north side of US Highway 40.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFFGaoxyeAw/WZkH7NusROI/AAAAAAAATYA/aa9Y5GiGC7gVK3IkUcVV-VhN-lJPSPn2QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFFGaoxyeAw/WZkH7NusROI/AAAAAAAATYA/aa9Y5GiGC7gVK3IkUcVV-VhN-lJPSPn2QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse006.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Summer flowers on a stretch of Highway 40.<br /><br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qIVcPn0UAW4/WZkH769MEbI/AAAAAAAATYI/3dvutz1Z6OcHgvvQJwLZyAKIumusVKQ1ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qIVcPn0UAW4/WZkH769MEbI/AAAAAAAATYI/3dvutz1Z6OcHgvvQJwLZyAKIumusVKQ1ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse007.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />All along this stretch are signs for the <a href="http://fmlight.com/history/" target="_blank">F.M. Light &amp; Sons</a> boot and hat shop. They are reminiscent of the Burma Shave signs elsewhere.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pctuZcvgMwk/WZkH72PxdHI/AAAAAAAATYE/r8FAerjJ34cxTbOLuW7trMSeCtZs1zt-QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pctuZcvgMwk/WZkH72PxdHI/AAAAAAAATYE/r8FAerjJ34cxTbOLuW7trMSeCtZs1zt-QCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Here's my ride! In 1991 I had my 1984 Toyota 4X4 pick-up. I still have her and wanted so much to take her. But she might not have given me the level of confidence this baby can.<br /><br />At <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muddy_Pass" target="_blank">Muddy Pass</a>&nbsp;(elev. 8772) I turned onto Colorado State Highway 125. The pass was not very evident as it is one of the lowest passes across the Continental Divide. I moved from the drainage of the Grand River into the drainage of the North Platte. Woo hoo!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0_Pj_RdGgE/WZkKq6hB2UI/AAAAAAAATYY/H152fdVAI9QsUDTxDo3o_PVXptjB8m_nACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0_Pj_RdGgE/WZkKq6hB2UI/AAAAAAAATYY/H152fdVAI9QsUDTxDo3o_PVXptjB8m_nACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>In this stretch of land near Walden Colorado the rocks are Cretaceous shales and there is a bit of oil and gas activity here. Those are the peaks in Rocky Mountain National Park in the far distance. Again, I kept looking for eclipse traffic and may have seen three or four cars that fit that description (young folks - often single men - in pick-up trucks with river running or climbing stickers all over the back). Then just past Chowdry, Highway 125 went west and 127 went east (my route). Every suspected eclipse traveler I saw went the other way!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYFNBugDjQ4/WZkK_KIqMbI/AAAAAAAATYc/pV9WOhMbR04ZiAdnnGMNdR36raJbEkc7gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYFNBugDjQ4/WZkK_KIqMbI/AAAAAAAATYc/pV9WOhMbR04ZiAdnnGMNdR36raJbEkc7gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Just past Chowdry on Highway 127 is this old-looking gneiss. I suspect this may be the trace of the Cheyenne fault where the younger Yavapai terrane was sutured onto the much older North American craton. If true, these rocks are 3 billion years old!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uNYlc0vssk4/WZkMHVkMP4I/AAAAAAAATYo/e9wg2w8e-tQJJUQEbTrp_7Y2coKGr4EggCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="614" data-original-width="1000" height="392" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uNYlc0vssk4/WZkMHVkMP4I/AAAAAAAATYo/e9wg2w8e-tQJJUQEbTrp_7Y2coKGr4EggCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The color change in the pavement can only mean one thing.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TYnTjSTsquA/WZkMCoOy8AI/AAAAAAAATYk/uSc5alMKd2wzewSb-cD3Bi3OV3c__lLMQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TYnTjSTsquA/WZkMCoOy8AI/AAAAAAAATYk/uSc5alMKd2wzewSb-cD3Bi3OV3c__lLMQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I made it! Wyoming, North America. Fantastic! This was by far the quietest stretch of highway I encountered on the whole trip. Between Chowdry and Woods Landing (just before the outskirts of Laramie), I saw one other vehicle going towards the center line! This was certainly a great route to take. I had heard that I-25 between Denver and Colorado Springs was crazy busy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9EL5S1QWEKM/WZkMlvEBCwI/AAAAAAAATYw/Oo5uUTVQFSUM8_7_yvKOFM5vtcBifLbXgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9EL5S1QWEKM/WZkMlvEBCwI/AAAAAAAATYw/Oo5uUTVQFSUM8_7_yvKOFM5vtcBifLbXgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Into Laramie - a long time coming. I have always wanted to come here for a number of reasons. Some of my favorite geology professors at NAU got their PhD's here, it is known as the highest elevation 4-year university in the United States (with NAU in Flagstaff second), and (drum roll please) it is the location of the Laramie Basin, a 70 to 40 million year old depression that gives the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laramide_orogeny" target="_blank">Laramide orogeny</a> its name. Awesome!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YngRSlxntKk/WZkMll0X_HI/AAAAAAAATY0/gkCd-1u_xuMWKD322JvZWcwR8ApPCjn5gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YngRSlxntKk/WZkMll0X_HI/AAAAAAAATY0/gkCd-1u_xuMWKD322JvZWcwR8ApPCjn5gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It is a quaint old town with many old homes and buildings. Looks like there is a big switching yard here for the Union Pacific transcontinental railroad.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G5mhlRz1f3A/WZkMleZ7NTI/AAAAAAAATYs/zParmnCb_Sw8mVUDbXuPDIzXOcLnFhYRwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G5mhlRz1f3A/WZkMleZ7NTI/AAAAAAAATYs/zParmnCb_Sw8mVUDbXuPDIzXOcLnFhYRwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Corner of Garfield and 2nd St. in downtown Laramie.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z-CsBQP0vTc/WZkNw7h2bXI/AAAAAAAATY8/k8f9Ck4sF2ofI1P3p6dJxophf_XpX19IACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BEclipse016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z-CsBQP0vTc/WZkNw7h2bXI/AAAAAAAATY8/k8f9Ck4sF2ofI1P3p6dJxophf_XpX19IACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BEclipse016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>My first bonafide eclipse seekers at a gas station in Laramie. Three 30-somethings looking on their cell phone for, what? Weather updates, traffic alerts? Regarding gas, I had filled up in Grand Junction and then told myself I would top off when it got to half full. That was about in Kremling. Gas was $2.50 and I almost pulled in...but...I kept going...in Walden it was $2.59...I almost topped off again but held back...Wyoming is full of oil and gas...and even though it may be crowded with eclipse-goers...I'll just stretch it a little more.... I filled up here for only $2.12 a gallon. You win some and you lose some.<br /><br />I'm overnighting here to get a fresh start on the day before the eclipse. Thanks for reading.Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-82975379604326433992017-08-13T13:20:00.000-07:002017-08-14T11:44:27.379-07:00Katmai National Park and the Alaska PeninsulaThis morning <i>The World</i> is docked in Dutch Harbor Alaska on Unalaska Island in the Aleutian chain. Dutch Harbor was attacked in World War II and eleven Americans lost their lives in the bombing. We will visit the World War II Museum here later today.<br /><br />We have enjoyed generally good weather on this trip and it is my pleasure to share more photos with you. This posting has less geology and more nature - the Brown bears we saw at Geographic Harbor in Katmai National Park were phenomenal.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d-rUjVWiXiE/WZCPTgH0haI/AAAAAAAATSU/_MiZb17QemUdmxrmZWKX6gCCSykKk7a-QCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d-rUjVWiXiE/WZCPTgH0haI/AAAAAAAATSU/_MiZb17QemUdmxrmZWKX6gCCSykKk7a-QCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is part of the ruins of Ft. Abercrombie on Kodiak Island. When Kiska Island was taken by the Imperial Japanese Army, the American military fortified many of the other Aleutian Islands in the Pacific. Ft. Abercrombie was one of these fortifications. It is now an Alaska State Park.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMDBCLnk4rw/WZCPVKQz-oI/AAAAAAAATSY/NfKwIrpewz4eh230mrByHte8X5Eu8b6FwCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMDBCLnk4rw/WZCPVKQz-oI/AAAAAAAATSY/NfKwIrpewz4eh230mrByHte8X5Eu8b6FwCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Kodiak Island is the 2nd largest island in the United States (Hawai'i is the largest) and contains the extreme northern end of the North American temperate rain forest. The southern-most edge of this rainforest is found way down along&nbsp;California's Big Sur coast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtCVF4T3_aU/WZCPVHIJoTI/AAAAAAAATSc/spQkFQa660QtxMSwA4SMI9W-sET1ne55QCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtCVF4T3_aU/WZCPVHIJoTI/AAAAAAAATSc/spQkFQa660QtxMSwA4SMI9W-sET1ne55QCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula022.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>They do green like the Colorado Plateau does red! Mosses cover the branches of a Sitka spruce tree in the State Park.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VeYsYCDWtRY/WZCPaIw64UI/AAAAAAAATSg/qiRaPElYnh4Lh0WrniJ6-UOj7iXRUXEGwCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VeYsYCDWtRY/WZCPaIw64UI/AAAAAAAATSg/qiRaPElYnh4Lh0WrniJ6-UOj7iXRUXEGwCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Ferns in the rain forest on Kodiak Island.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QOmHgKJMiDI/WZCPa9sU7XI/AAAAAAAATSk/cxIeMMI47Po9AwSgpplhMEqBqk3tg7pOgCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QOmHgKJMiDI/WZCPa9sU7XI/AAAAAAAATSk/cxIeMMI47Po9AwSgpplhMEqBqk3tg7pOgCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A road cut in the town of Kodiak exposed deep water marine sediments that are part of the Chugach terrane. See my previous posting for a simple description of terrane geology. A more detailed and scientific description of the Church terrane can be found <a href="https://keckgeology.org/2012/11/2013-chugach-terrane-alaska/" target="_blank">here</a>. Generally, these rocks were deposited in a deep marine trench like the nearby modern Aleutian trench. These sediments are Late Cretaceous to Eocene in age, about 75 to 55 million years old.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LIWvkeJQ8lA/WZCQBFOtv6I/AAAAAAAATTI/p5HOJV2bslwSkaomRjMnIHniLcWVPIATgCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LIWvkeJQ8lA/WZCQBFOtv6I/AAAAAAAATTI/p5HOJV2bslwSkaomRjMnIHniLcWVPIATgCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>The World </i>at anchor at the mouth of Geographic Harbor in Katmai National Park, Alaska Peninsula.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rbm9ESSM4Yg/WZCQHjCFoHI/AAAAAAAATTc/bsBITb4__K0b6k_89tRwJj9-ICbXVzP0QCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rbm9ESSM4Yg/WZCQHjCFoHI/AAAAAAAATTc/bsBITb4__K0b6k_89tRwJj9-ICbXVzP0QCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula035.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Entrance to Geographic Harbor and a slow Zodiac cruise to the inside of the harbor.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YCRYvpDxfcE/WZCPySY7x2I/AAAAAAAATTc/08yxuyhBPWAp4-ABMYYuS_-4_DxYmiOiQCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YCRYvpDxfcE/WZCPySY7x2I/AAAAAAAATTc/08yxuyhBPWAp4-ABMYYuS_-4_DxYmiOiQCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Foliated intrusive rocks are part of the volcanic complex here.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBLPdwNoC6w/WZCPfIjb_JI/AAAAAAAATSs/Pxr796X-i4ghdKwYBXSTbL4tL-unGeykgCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBLPdwNoC6w/WZCPfIjb_JI/AAAAAAAATSs/Pxr796X-i4ghdKwYBXSTbL4tL-unGeykgCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Note the dark-colored bedrock in the peak and the light-colored talus slopes below it. The lighter material is volcanic ash from the June 6, 1912 eruption of the Novarupta volcano, located about 20 miles north of this spot. The 1912 eruption of Novarupta is considered the largest volcanic eruption on Earth during the entire 20th Century and is surpassed in all of recorded history only by the 1815 eruption of the Tambora volcano in Indonesia. It covered a nearby valley in over 300 feet of pyroclastic material. Even though no one was nearby to record the events of this eruption, modern-day volcanologists with more tools have revealed the sequence of events that occurred here during the 60 hours of eruption. It is now one of the best studied volcanic eruptions known. You can read more about the eruption and its aftermath <a href="https://www.wired.com/2012/06/the-biggest-bang-of-the-20th-century-the-1912-eruption-of-novarupta-in-alaska/" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;(and in the contained links).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ3881O6uyo/WZCPawM_7yI/AAAAAAAATSo/t5k_CEwEOb4pklZp4sB3VTFLRzxZxfjxgCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ3881O6uyo/WZCPawM_7yI/AAAAAAAATSo/t5k_CEwEOb4pklZp4sB3VTFLRzxZxfjxgCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>In Geographic Harbor, it was difficult to focus on geology as no fewer than nine bears were ambling along the shoreline in this relatively small area.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EOvO8k1YR_M/WZCP4yIZEZI/AAAAAAAATS0/GyZp9X9RakAc3aQXNqyMZhkyCgDFRvXzQCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EOvO8k1YR_M/WZCP4yIZEZI/AAAAAAAATS0/GyZp9X9RakAc3aQXNqyMZhkyCgDFRvXzQCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Close-up of the mother bear seen above. The species is known as the American brown bear <i>(Ursus arctos horribilus)</i>, the&nbsp;silver tip bear, or the grizzly bear. They did not seem so fierce when viewed from the safety of a boat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zdzz2lpiudo/WZCP5i5oYPI/AAAAAAAATS4/HtIEkO3zdO44YWIS4x0NaAlvBvW3Zzh4ACEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zdzz2lpiudo/WZCP5i5oYPI/AAAAAAAATS4/HtIEkO3zdO44YWIS4x0NaAlvBvW3Zzh4ACEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Viewing bears safely from a Zodiac. They hardly even noticed us quietly sitting out in the water. about 75 meters away It would have been a much different feeling had we been walking ashore or camping here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WvZWiTVN28U/WZCP6O-eM8I/AAAAAAAATS8/-6ouJRLjbnsyN0czgZNP99IXZqorRDS6wCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WvZWiTVN28U/WZCP6O-eM8I/AAAAAAAATS8/-6ouJRLjbnsyN0czgZNP99IXZqorRDS6wCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Katmai National park boasts nearly 2,200 bears in its 4 million acres.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lhMnJQ2t2hk/WZCP7LHAA3I/AAAAAAAATTA/IWtm0ml9sEU0KD89TWuCi-HXfTpM7gdMQCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lhMnJQ2t2hk/WZCP7LHAA3I/AAAAAAAATTA/IWtm0ml9sEU0KD89TWuCi-HXfTpM7gdMQCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Another mother with her two cubs digging for amphipods in the tidal mud.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X2q8zuwIqt0/WZCP9-x8qzI/AAAAAAAATTE/GRezlQhbmM41Yw6uK_adF2St-8T7L9U5wCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X2q8zuwIqt0/WZCP9-x8qzI/AAAAAAAATTE/GRezlQhbmM41Yw6uK_adF2St-8T7L9U5wCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This cub is about 7 months old. Anyone wanting to see Brown bears in their native habitat got what they wanted on this trip. Next stop - the Semidi Islands.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zr9RI7NCydQ/WZC3bOgANRI/AAAAAAAATU4/LGpMldNoqzQKtiqE10NExBL6ZHkGFSERgCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zr9RI7NCydQ/WZC3bOgANRI/AAAAAAAATU4/LGpMldNoqzQKtiqE10NExBL6ZHkGFSERgCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Zodiacs ready for a landing at the Semidi Islands.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JmbxRgSwFr0/WZCSENqnN8I/AAAAAAAATTs/DkuQmZsSSwMcdGcFdbq97boQkJBokxXWACLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JmbxRgSwFr0/WZCSENqnN8I/AAAAAAAATTs/DkuQmZsSSwMcdGcFdbq97boQkJBokxXWACLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We climbed up to a pass on the island that allowed us to view its rocky shore. Geologically, these islands are a southwest extension of the Chugach terrane and of Kodiak Island.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WMCrUJNGWg8/WZCQV_gS3MI/AAAAAAAATTY/qsEmsIaKltIgEGDGG9m6QDgOpvwC0ppOQCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WMCrUJNGWg8/WZCQV_gS3MI/AAAAAAAATTY/qsEmsIaKltIgEGDGG9m6QDgOpvwC0ppOQCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula038.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Close-up of shoreline.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-akhfVL4Yruo/WZCQRqYQq6I/AAAAAAAATTU/iTR3rbD-Cv4KMMT7u99Izw1l40uWB8bPQCEwYBhgL/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-akhfVL4Yruo/WZCQRqYQq6I/AAAAAAAATTU/iTR3rbD-Cv4KMMT7u99Izw1l40uWB8bPQCEwYBhgL/s640/AK%2BPeninsula037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div>This coast suffers the brunt of harsh winter storms from the open Pacific Ocean. Huge driftwood logs were thrown-up on the shore of cobble beach. In the distance some 10,000 miles is the shoreline of Antarctica, the next bit of land in that direction.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><ahref bp.blogspot.com="" eninsula039.jpg="" gr_ceexs1wv1y2eeinsffumvjucxzgclcbgas="" hcmd2xgaky="" https:="" imageanchor="1" o="" s1600="" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" w73i=""><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9hcmD2xGaKY/WZCSENKw73I/AAAAAAAATTo/YD9gR_CeEXs1wV1Y2eEinsFFUmVjucXzgCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula039.JPG" width="640" /></ahref></div>This is <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhodiola_rosea" target="_blank">Rose root </a><i>(Rhodiola&nbsp;rosea). </i>My colleague Conrad Field made the identification for me and I was surprised how important this plant is to Artic peoples for medicinal purposes. Check out the link above.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M_MLPGnF20g/WZCSHXAzjAI/AAAAAAAATTw/5tIdWl0LIE89tyxAwU7XPS8h2bqgWRmZQCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="788" height="452" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M_MLPGnF20g/WZCSHXAzjAI/AAAAAAAATTw/5tIdWl0LIE89tyxAwU7XPS8h2bqgWRmZQCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Horned_Puffin/id" target="_blank">Horned puffins</a>&nbsp;<i>(Fratercula corniculata)</i> can be found on these islands. They nest here but spend up to seven months on the open water in winter.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_2QYQR5mZCk/WZCSNSeFeSI/AAAAAAAATT0/ys17TTHyOcsfOjgCa6_UgpKJB7xgJZ2FgCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_2QYQR5mZCk/WZCSNSeFeSI/AAAAAAAATT0/ys17TTHyOcsfOjgCa6_UgpKJB7xgJZ2FgCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Next stop is the Shumagan Islands and the island of Unga (ninth largest island in the US). We stopped in Delarof Harbor at an abandoned fishing village that provided a great palette for photography.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-srvbBOYNHw4/WZCSN3cE8aI/AAAAAAAATT8/orSZQy4W308-4ZCMbY38UquD1NYDtwn0ACLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-srvbBOYNHw4/WZCSN3cE8aI/AAAAAAAATT8/orSZQy4W308-4ZCMbY38UquD1NYDtwn0ACLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This is the grave of a young girl who likely died in the influenza epidemic of 1918.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQXJlkoWnLU/WZCSN24waTI/AAAAAAAATT4/RnpwuMS2gQsx_OeEI2bDONik1SAZ8A5EgCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQXJlkoWnLU/WZCSN24waTI/AAAAAAAATT4/RnpwuMS2gQsx_OeEI2bDONik1SAZ8A5EgCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula045.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Church steeple in Unga. The village was last inhabited in the 1970s and served as the base for a cod fishery before abandonment.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mOp05RmvpG0/WZCSPGrPfdI/AAAAAAAATUA/ptc3oBA8tUQwPlx9mROtU9Ow0WDZcYKhQCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="779" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mOp05RmvpG0/WZCSPGrPfdI/AAAAAAAATUA/ptc3oBA8tUQwPlx9mROtU9Ow0WDZcYKhQCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Two <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Horned_Owl/id" target="_blank">Great horned owls</a>&nbsp;<i>(Bubo virginianus)</i> in a Sitka spruce tree in the village of Unga.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ek6P2zp3VzA/WZCSUi5kF7I/AAAAAAAATUE/WXoJu9PLOvkdMKvJYGQQAheUynpqPe9HwCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ek6P2zp3VzA/WZCSUi5kF7I/AAAAAAAATUE/WXoJu9PLOvkdMKvJYGQQAheUynpqPe9HwCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A yellow paintbrush <i>(Castilleja unaleschcensis) </i>is a common wildflower in this part of Alaska.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UTJ8_IZ4WPo/WZCSVdI5BDI/AAAAAAAATUI/8TNSx4fD6G80HvQ1AnmihluXPKDVrU6LgCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UTJ8_IZ4WPo/WZCSVdI5BDI/AAAAAAAATUI/8TNSx4fD6G80HvQ1AnmihluXPKDVrU6LgCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula048.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><i>The World </i>at anchor near the east shore of Unga Island. There is a gold prospect on this island that is gearing ups for operation. So far, 150,000 ounces of gold have been taken from here (in historic time) and the new venture may yield much more. Read about it <a href="https://www.redstargold.com/projects/alaska/unga-project/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iu-WuG4v9sI/WZCSWSN6zdI/AAAAAAAATUQ/54EFU_Xe64s8D0gmwv1-P4ZCqqcDKXfhgCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="710" height="452" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iu-WuG4v9sI/WZCSWSN6zdI/AAAAAAAATUQ/54EFU_Xe64s8D0gmwv1-P4ZCqqcDKXfhgCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula050.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A northern&nbsp;<a href="http://www.defenders.org/sea-otter/basic-facts" target="_blank">sea otter</a>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: &quot;times&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif;"><i>(</i><em>Enhydra lutris kenyoni)</em></span><em style="font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">&nbsp;</em>rests in the quiet waters of the bay.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2HlfBOpeAYc/WZCSa-OAl8I/AAAAAAAATUU/6Lm6djyGehwMNiB_mZvHyR-zfW5XxYqJgCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2HlfBOpeAYc/WZCSa-OAl8I/AAAAAAAATUU/6Lm6djyGehwMNiB_mZvHyR-zfW5XxYqJgCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula051.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Near the outside of Delarof Harbor are these fantastic shapes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ch6QCPQEwck/WZCSax_RZJI/AAAAAAAATUY/jX4PQFADGScZeKf4pIcSfNyab1J0lFS_wCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ch6QCPQEwck/WZCSax_RZJI/AAAAAAAATUY/jX4PQFADGScZeKf4pIcSfNyab1J0lFS_wCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula052.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Rock and <i>The World.</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UjtM81KmapM/WZCSbZ30mdI/AAAAAAAATUc/wl6sil3ilBsyYQGh_xoCpg867-KGnG06QCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UjtM81KmapM/WZCSbZ30mdI/AAAAAAAATUc/wl6sil3ilBsyYQGh_xoCpg867-KGnG06QCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A final stop was made on Unimak Island, the easternmost of the Aleutian chain. The Isanotski volcano stands at 8,104 feet above sea level as viewed from Otter Cove looking to the northwest.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-US3N74w0Qik/WZCSf-2ssfI/AAAAAAAATUg/vCn4-mr7Md8azjJXdSYQLSx4CrCBXIVCACLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-US3N74w0Qik/WZCSf-2ssfI/AAAAAAAATUg/vCn4-mr7Md8azjJXdSYQLSx4CrCBXIVCACLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula054.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Zodiac and <i>The World </i>in morning light in Otter Cove on August 12, 2017.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zmudc2aOs6w/WZCShUM4OyI/AAAAAAAATUo/jYwaNWFpn9cFJVALpM2kry7MBs7Q-21PgCLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zmudc2aOs6w/WZCShUM4OyI/AAAAAAAATUo/jYwaNWFpn9cFJVALpM2kry7MBs7Q-21PgCLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula055.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Bear trackway on the sand at Otter Cove.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-agkD-Ezrh3E/WZCSgZ2cLEI/AAAAAAAATUk/34i9wodJc6MmCuxWROieS84f0RHGyrmcACLcBGAs/s1600/AK%2BPeninsula056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-agkD-Ezrh3E/WZCSgZ2cLEI/AAAAAAAATUk/34i9wodJc6MmCuxWROieS84f0RHGyrmcACLcBGAs/s640/AK%2BPeninsula056.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div>This has been a wonderful voyage on <i>The World</i>. Thanks to all of the residents here who make my visit with them possible.</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-8145539839337902512017-08-06T15:18:00.003-07:002017-08-06T15:23:04.784-07:00Expedition to the Alaska Peninsula and Aleutian IslandsI am taking a "break" from rainy Arizona and gone to sunny Alaska. (No, that is not a typo). As northern Arizona is experiencing one of the wettest monsoons ever, I arrived in Anchorage Alaska to clear sunny skies. Go figure.<br /><div><br /></div><div>I am back on board<a href="http://aboardtheworld.com/" target="_blank"> <i><b>The World</b></i></a>, perhaps the most unique ship that sails the Seven Seas. I am here to give geology lectures and drive Zodiacs as we cruise this amazing, tectonically active terrane.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have already given one lecture entitled, "<i>Fiery Bridge of the North: The Geology of the Alaska Peninsula and the Aleutian Island</i>s." I include some slides from that lecture here, as well as some fabulous photos of the volcanoes we sailed past on August 5 in the Cook Inlet after leaving Anchorage.</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Slides from my lecture</u>: "<i>Fiery Bridge of the North: The Geology of the Alaska Peninsula and the Aleutian Island</i>s"</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RkXj76P-1U0/WYeDuMxWd_I/AAAAAAAATP4/1mU1bPa2VusaV92jJCrw-SH7Bpq8xWgLACLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.001.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RkXj76P-1U0/WYeDuMxWd_I/AAAAAAAATP4/1mU1bPa2VusaV92jJCrw-SH7Bpq8xWgLACLcBGAs/s640/Blog.001.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>Title slide<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JvzEMyPbbMQ/WYeDsoDbRuI/AAAAAAAATPw/7ZOWLyXuTCQhRybqonQZM255p-pJv06WwCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.002.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JvzEMyPbbMQ/WYeDsoDbRuI/AAAAAAAATPw/7ZOWLyXuTCQhRybqonQZM255p-pJv06WwCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.002.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>Letting people know what the subject is about. The Colosseo lecture Hal is phenomenal and has been updated since the last time I was here. Images are projected on a center screen from an overhead projector and on two TV monitors left and right of that. All lectures are streamed into the apartments and videos of each lecture becomes archived on board and are instantly retrievable for no less than three years.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9H8SkBzcLUM/WYeDshPu9OI/AAAAAAAATP0/RURXOaWCuvE5qXPkwRLLejtSN94IYuWlQCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.003.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9H8SkBzcLUM/WYeDshPu9OI/AAAAAAAATP0/RURXOaWCuvE5qXPkwRLLejtSN94IYuWlQCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.003.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>I used this annotated Digital Elevation Map (DEM) to introduce listeners to the geography and landforms of Alaska. By pressing the advance key, the individual names of features appear as I talk about them. The two mountain ranges shown, the Alaska Range and the Brooks Range, determine the course of the Yukon River as it makes its way from the interior to the coast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_5etHRlCXtA/WYeDzWj4foI/AAAAAAAATQA/zh6GcDkO0F0PL3u1zuKQtXgqRlRi_pxgQCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.004.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_5etHRlCXtA/WYeDzWj4foI/AAAAAAAATQA/zh6GcDkO0F0PL3u1zuKQtXgqRlRi_pxgQCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.004.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>A colorized DEM shows the Aleutian volcanic arc and the 25,000 foot deep Aleutian trench. The Pacific Ocean floor is being consumed under the arc as it moves to the northwest (toward the upper left) into the trench. When that slab arrives about 60 miles deep, it is the right temperature to begin melting and blobs of magma move upward to create the volcano arc.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dl-Eb_HgiIg/WYeIAXy7U4I/AAAAAAAATRI/MvEnvR4YtIcMlnEnFUkhuYfnusSf75C-wCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-06%2Bat%2B1.18.23%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1200" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dl-Eb_HgiIg/WYeIAXy7U4I/AAAAAAAATRI/MvEnvR4YtIcMlnEnFUkhuYfnusSf75C-wCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-06%2Bat%2B1.18.23%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>Don't be confused by the spelling of the word "terrane' above. While the more common spelling "terrain" refers to the shape of the land or a description of the landforms on it, geologists use "terrane" to refer to discrete blocks of crust that have different histories and origins to rocks in adjacent blocks. The rock type, age and place of origin are different between the various colors &nbsp;The idea is that each colored area originated elsewhere and by plate tectonic processes drifted towards and arrived to North America in a giant collision, much like Australia is today drifting north to attach the Indonesian archipelago to it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hUi3kspJoks/WYeLi8TwOdI/AAAAAAAATRU/2q8moiTLCP8fjOJBVLRO7aWG_EK0FhA4QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-06%2Bat%2B1.33.19%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1200" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hUi3kspJoks/WYeLi8TwOdI/AAAAAAAATRU/2q8moiTLCP8fjOJBVLRO7aWG_EK0FhA4QCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-06%2Bat%2B1.33.19%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>All of this drifting of "exotic terranes" means that earthquakes happen here and I spent some time describing the Great Alaskan Earthquake of March 27, 1964. This iconic image was taken that fateful afternoon when a 9.2 magnitude earthquake struck about 150 miles southeast of Anchorage. It is still the 2nd most powerful quake recorded in historic time and 143 people lost their lives (# 1 is the earthquake that struck Valdivia Chile in May, 1960). Most fatalities were not from shaking of the ground but by the tsunami waves that emanated from the rupture, some as far away as Oregon and California. This photo was taken on 4th Street in Anchorage looking east across Barrow Street.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bMoQh3RwY-Q/WYeD8XC6yDI/AAAAAAAATQI/FExNYYrlQP89idgrSbAg7VQPz1FT12AnQCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.007.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bMoQh3RwY-Q/WYeD8XC6yDI/AAAAAAAATQI/FExNYYrlQP89idgrSbAg7VQPz1FT12AnQCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.007.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>So what did I do with some free time in Anchorage - I went to the exact same spot to rephotograph the same location. I was surprised to see that the Muti-storied building in the distance was still standing today and was a welcomed reference point. During the lecture, I scrolled back and forth from one image to the other, giving a sense of the destruction that the earthquake had wrought. A stream in Anchorage is to the left and the gaping hole seen in the previous photo formed when the land slumped downward into the stream valley.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jS5_i6-7rDw/WYeEBM3rnGI/AAAAAAAATQM/d9jTw3b8Ycoif5QFNGeSHbn27o2lmNXHgCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.008.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jS5_i6-7rDw/WYeEBM3rnGI/AAAAAAAATQM/d9jTw3b8Ycoif5QFNGeSHbn27o2lmNXHgCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.008.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>It's all fine to talk about things like this but most people want to know the answers to the questions posed above. That is when geology becomes relevant to lay persons - "What does this mean for me?" So I then mentioned that after the quake, the US Geological Survey sent three geologists to Alaska to figure out what happened. Remember that 1964 was the infancy of plate tectonic theory and many aspects of it had not yet been determined. But using some preliminary thoughts on the subject, these geologists ultimately cored into the fault zone to see if a history of rupturing could be determined. The cores revealed the following information.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jTxzZHIwDxI/WYeEBkP7Y8I/AAAAAAAATQQ/DW9HO5HKUAgKQFokq-gDYa-E7EiMpuB6ACLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.009.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jTxzZHIwDxI/WYeEBkP7Y8I/AAAAAAAATQQ/DW9HO5HKUAgKQFokq-gDYa-E7EiMpuB6ACLcBGAs/s640/Blog.009.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>This is a photograph of a part of a sediment core obtained about nine feet below the surface and near the coast to the southeast of Anchorage. It revealed a two-part lithology, with marine clay below abruptly ending at and covered in terrestrially derived peat.The organic matter in the peat was radiocarbon dated at about 2,800 years ago, showing the moment in time when this mega-quake occurred. An idea was formulated that areas near the coast that were below sea level &nbsp;before the quake were uplifted when the ruptured happened, while areas further inland near Anchorage, subsided after the rupture. The diagrams below explain this further.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7mhUlPwO2cQ/WYeEB0uUy0I/AAAAAAAATQU/fUXCe8I-NEU_g8tRFe8q32MZ5cSBRfQ-wCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.010.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7mhUlPwO2cQ/WYeEB0uUy0I/AAAAAAAATQU/fUXCe8I-NEU_g8tRFe8q32MZ5cSBRfQ-wCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.010.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>Map showing areas of uplift and subsidence during the Great Alaskan Earthquake of 1964. The star shows the epicenter of the rupture.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Qij7Y9015E/WYeECSbaGAI/AAAAAAAATQY/bmK8xjDGXwMrl8Sq3ySUjdjNc2uUxhONQCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.011.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Qij7Y9015E/WYeECSbaGAI/AAAAAAAATQY/bmK8xjDGXwMrl8Sq3ySUjdjNc2uUxhONQCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.011.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>During an approximate 600 year period, the lower slab moves north (right) and tugs at the overriding plate. Friction keeps the two slabs coupled tight, causing subsidence near the coast but uplift inland.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q-ZO0fOwG5g/WYeEDfBNvBI/AAAAAAAATQc/3a8sVwgPJnAcEO4yiNmwnR4lHrY_h-GOQCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.012.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q-ZO0fOwG5g/WYeEDfBNvBI/AAAAAAAATQc/3a8sVwgPJnAcEO4yiNmwnR4lHrY_h-GOQCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.012.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>In mere minutes, the upper plate breaks free from the friction of the lower plate and recoils south (left). The frictional pressure is released causing an earthquake and the coastal areas become uplifted relative to their former position while inland areas subside. A mechanism and explanation had been uncovered!<br /><br />Next I moved on to the topic of Alaskan volcanoes and gave listeners a great tool for discovering the story of Alaskan volcanoes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gH6KpwdmnfE/WYeEDm3kS7I/AAAAAAAATQg/ZImOyO-mSv0_DWrW2Toqc7VBK_gWGD_bACLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.013.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gH6KpwdmnfE/WYeEDm3kS7I/AAAAAAAATQg/ZImOyO-mSv0_DWrW2Toqc7VBK_gWGD_bACLcBGAs/s640/Blog.013.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>The Alaska Volcano Observatory is the place to go for everything about Alaskan volcanoes.<br /><br />And now some pictures from sailing in the Cook Inlet at sunrise on August 5.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tDxPO5OELeg/WYeEED4u5ZI/AAAAAAAATQk/7REYlHO4LqwT9E2VbyXCpQK1SphI1H56QCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.014.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tDxPO5OELeg/WYeEED4u5ZI/AAAAAAAATQk/7REYlHO4LqwT9E2VbyXCpQK1SphI1H56QCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.014.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>Sunrise over the water. I have provided links to each volcano mentioned here on the AVO web site. Check them out for a more complete picture of each volcano.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vhXv3rArOic/WYeEFF1vTNI/AAAAAAAATQo/xGWKgp0LJyM-gCQ-6xUXZdJ1TdgtG_fiwCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.015.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vhXv3rArOic/WYeEFF1vTNI/AAAAAAAATQo/xGWKgp0LJyM-gCQ-6xUXZdJ1TdgtG_fiwCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.015.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>Early morning light on the <a href="https://avo.alaska.edu/volcanoes/volcinfo.php?volcname=Redoubt" target="_blank">Redoubt volcano</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKqODGLjAnw/WYeEHSf7ECI/AAAAAAAATQs/bRTr7tfD3hoxYhVGCFhRCxPByCZTgSrxACLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.016.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKqODGLjAnw/WYeEHSf7ECI/AAAAAAAATQs/bRTr7tfD3hoxYhVGCFhRCxPByCZTgSrxACLcBGAs/s640/Blog.016.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>The light changed quite quickly.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7qTX_m3hNqI/WYeEH6P0G5I/AAAAAAAATQw/gMlZ3r9tjm4QYh01UmM7i5pmpyqQANm0gCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.017.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7qTX_m3hNqI/WYeEH6P0G5I/AAAAAAAATQw/gMlZ3r9tjm4QYh01UmM7i5pmpyqQANm0gCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.017.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>This is <a href="https://avo.alaska.edu/volcanoes/volcinfo.php?volcname=Spurr" target="_blank">Mt. Spurr</a>, another volcano with the power to shut down the skyways when it sends up a puff of ask. Thirteen volcanoes line the coast of the Cook Inlet.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31JihwqySGE/WYeEIGKFbvI/AAAAAAAATQ0/S3tGgj5tBKUuEfG3ImshyirfeIr_8-IHwCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.018.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31JihwqySGE/WYeEIGKFbvI/AAAAAAAATQ0/S3tGgj5tBKUuEfG3ImshyirfeIr_8-IHwCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.018.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://avo.alaska.edu/volcanoes/volcinfo.php?volcname=Iliamna" target="_blank">Iliamna volcano</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GNk8xgHl2pI/WYeEJdeek-I/AAAAAAAATQ8/44H-sV2X93kHk9Q6V1d-BFLR5n0jgIc1wCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.020.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GNk8xgHl2pI/WYeEJdeek-I/AAAAAAAATQ8/44H-sV2X93kHk9Q6V1d-BFLR5n0jgIc1wCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.020.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://avo.alaska.edu/volcanoes/volcinfo.php?volcname=Augustine" target="_blank">Augustine volcano</a> in late eventing light as we sail toward Kodiak Island.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A-KAY_rSqos/WYeEIyBHAhI/AAAAAAAATQ4/YUprIfeJ0wkWxYnQsH5N5qeKaRY1MHKwQCLcBGAs/s1600/Blog.019.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A-KAY_rSqos/WYeEIyBHAhI/AAAAAAAATQ4/YUprIfeJ0wkWxYnQsH5N5qeKaRY1MHKwQCLcBGAs/s640/Blog.019.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>The Barren Islands as fog creeps northward from the Pacific Ocean on the opposite side. Thanks for reading!Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-9490968451607979512017-07-24T07:19:00.001-07:002017-07-25T19:49:09.049-07:00Filming at a Sandstone Gem in Northern ArizonaThis past weekend, I was asked to take part in a Japanese TV production at the Vermilion Cliffs, a remote location in far northern Arizona. I was asked to serve as geologic interpreter for&nbsp;<span style="font-family: &quot;times&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif;">the longest running Japanese TV Travel Documentary program, titled “Sekai Fushigi Hakken (Discover the Wonders of the World), which has been airing in Japan since 1986.&nbsp;This is my second Japanese television&nbsp;project I have worked since last November. I was to explain how this extraordinary landscape came to look the way it does.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;times&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1ydX9a3a8o/WXXtpBj6v0I/AAAAAAAATLQ/RchOaQjRJ3EVtKYZU_tnzuqGV0VhGaccgCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1ydX9a3a8o/WXXtpBj6v0I/AAAAAAAATLQ/RchOaQjRJ3EVtKYZU_tnzuqGV0VhGaccgCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket01.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Setting up the initial shots. We had to drive for 90 minutes on a very bad road just to attain the trailhead. Then it was a short walk into the rocks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yquJvHwf5S4/WXXtpGHZq4I/AAAAAAAATLc/2F4f62JdGosdW4y1ftG4gcQu0CrH_rUzACLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yquJvHwf5S4/WXXtpGHZq4I/AAAAAAAATLc/2F4f62JdGosdW4y1ftG4gcQu0CrH_rUzACLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket02.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This was the host of the show who was in front of the camera explaining the geology.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iieAmPzRJOo/WXXtrH0FuNI/AAAAAAAATLg/9E5_1lAEDQUmmtydSfCEwv6cX4LYLJrHACLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket05.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iieAmPzRJOo/WXXtrH0FuNI/AAAAAAAATLg/9E5_1lAEDQUmmtydSfCEwv6cX4LYLJrHACLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket05.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The area boasts some of the strangest forms I have seen in sandstone outcrops and it is easy to see why they wished to film here.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCVpSad5UYY/WXXtrwfnmtI/AAAAAAAATLo/y1UUd8hqoK809rxPz9bysHl82bfB1iFSQCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket07.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCVpSad5UYY/WXXtrwfnmtI/AAAAAAAATLo/y1UUd8hqoK809rxPz9bysHl82bfB1iFSQCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket07.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>There are lots of exposures of Navajo Sandstone in the Arizona and the American Southwest. But I think they were drawn to this particular area because of the fantastic shapes, which can be explained geologically.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zGouuqFrrxo/WXXtuLuUB-I/AAAAAAAATMI/YKgrOEJKtag5XuEq3FKrsHdbWbKYkdGMgCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zGouuqFrrxo/WXXtuLuUB-I/AAAAAAAATMI/YKgrOEJKtag5XuEq3FKrsHdbWbKYkdGMgCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket14.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>To start with, the Navajo Sandstone was deposited during the Jurassic, about 190 million years ago. It's obvious textures show that this part of North America was a vast Sahara-like desert in which huge dune fields abounded. These are essentially petrified dunes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K-9p2qHhJbA/WXXttEJnbnI/AAAAAAAATL4/LSphytHhYdIHoF2wnX3Y1gLEp5L_lYDAQCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K-9p2qHhJbA/WXXttEJnbnI/AAAAAAAATL4/LSphytHhYdIHoF2wnX3Y1gLEp5L_lYDAQCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Close-up of the cross-bedded sandstone. Cross-bedding indicates the current direction - in this case air or wind. The direction that the cross-beds dip indicates the ancient wind direction. Here we can see that the wind was blowing from left to right. It is the leeward side of the dunes that are preserved. The US quarter for scale lies within a bed of sand that has variable grain sizes, while the thin wisps that stick out in relief are of one particular size. The interpretation is that variably-sized layers resulted from sand avalanches that slid down from the crest of the dune. In these avalanches, variably sized grains intermix. (See the picture immediately below). The thinner but single size layers are the result of gentle winds blowing across the dune face in between avalanches. The wind segregates the sand grains to a particular and specific size. As all of this texture sits buried, groundwater moves through the sand and leaves variable amounts of cement, ultimately causing this feature when the rock becomes uplifted, exposed and weathered. This was quite a bit of information to relate to a travel variety show but our host was most gracious and seemed to be impressed with the information (relayed through a translator).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sv6lUohs6WI/WXX7wR9RxEI/AAAAAAAATMs/AfDhFMI4FVIIbwsKwnpJJyHoatfERMn8ACLcBGAs/s1600/DuneCrest%2Bcopy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1166" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sv6lUohs6WI/WXX7wR9RxEI/AAAAAAAATMs/AfDhFMI4FVIIbwsKwnpJJyHoatfERMn8ACLcBGAs/s640/DuneCrest%2Bcopy.png" width="640" /></a></div>The next two photos are from the Namib Desert in southern Africa. This one shows the extent of this great desert, which makes for a good modern analog of the Navajo erg (sand sea) that was present in the American Southwest during the Jurassic some 190 million years ago.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9sOHn_UVXk/WXX7BhjHKhI/AAAAAAAATMk/5LDIDSUs0z82ohfGqEluHhuK94eycDcxgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9sOHn_UVXk/WXX7BhjHKhI/AAAAAAAATMk/5LDIDSUs0z82ohfGqEluHhuK94eycDcxgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_9114.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Here are examples of sand avalanches from the dune field in Namibia, with sand avalanches seen on the leeward side of a dune. Note the tongues of sand that have naturally cascaded downhill when the slope of the dune became too too steep.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8eSWVSNVK9c/WXXtp5Cc9TI/AAAAAAAATLY/njYHv07hgaYkL6VwM32il0eH5eNBG37BQCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8eSWVSNVK9c/WXXtp5Cc9TI/AAAAAAAATLY/njYHv07hgaYkL6VwM32il0eH5eNBG37BQCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket04.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>And all of this is just the first part of there story! The previous could explain most Navajo Sandstone outcrops anywhere on the Colorado Plateau. Here in the Vermilion Cliffs however, a few beds of sandstone were involved in a prehistoric landslide that disrupted the layering before they became cemented. In the middle of this rock, you can see the reddish contorted beds riding up and over the in-place beds below and above. This is what gives this area its unique attraction.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_dS_5932sv8/WXXtrYo2HrI/AAAAAAAATLk/lNnr22tpyAEJvRJhKZ5KZY6P1wytjHB-gCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_dS_5932sv8/WXXtrYo2HrI/AAAAAAAATLk/lNnr22tpyAEJvRJhKZ5KZY6P1wytjHB-gCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket06.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Close-up view of the mobilized bed of sand (main part of the picture with brownish rock) with an intact and undisrupted cross-bedded sandstone riding on top of it (upper left). Note the clast of cross-bedded sandstone (lower right) that was broken off from its main counterpart and lodged as a separate clast within the disrupted beds.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mHnzs00sudY/WXXtsF9gnBI/AAAAAAAATLs/Uu1JfZ5-TB8M8Z52aej8oiy1H42bOJs7ACLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket08.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mHnzs00sudY/WXXtsF9gnBI/AAAAAAAATLs/Uu1JfZ5-TB8M8Z52aej8oiy1H42bOJs7ACLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket08.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Overturned sandstone involved in a Jurassic-age slump event. The slump could have been initiated by an earthquake or slippage along a wet horizon (or both).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8iYrhTscdU/WXXtsl7CNWI/AAAAAAAATL0/aqs-4L9ZDl4xrgdGlQt9uNhQIjztK3WwACLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8iYrhTscdU/WXXtsl7CNWI/AAAAAAAATL0/aqs-4L9ZDl4xrgdGlQt9uNhQIjztK3WwACLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Small-scale faults disrupt the cross-bedding. Features like this suggest that the sediment was somewhat consolidated and partially brittle. The extreme folding elsewhere indicates that it was not completely lithified.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sqANZMVTE70/WXXtsQKfWaI/AAAAAAAATLw/NCVgpsKFwJ4zcC4B1YKACpdGVFC1dLcJQCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket09.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sqANZMVTE70/WXXtsQKfWaI/AAAAAAAATLw/NCVgpsKFwJ4zcC4B1YKACpdGVFC1dLcJQCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket09.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A plant called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petrophytum_caespitosum" target="_blank">rockmat</a>&nbsp;(<i>Petrophytum caespitosum</i>) in the Rose family, grows where water seeps out of the rocks and adds a touch of green to an otherwise red landscape.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SscQNIByetU/WXXttRq347I/AAAAAAAATL8/8dWLK81DY-AFXwX9Q4BynWPyc_f0-Lu7gCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SscQNIByetU/WXXttRq347I/AAAAAAAATL8/8dWLK81DY-AFXwX9Q4BynWPyc_f0-Lu7gCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket12.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The mobilized bed appears as whitish sandstone on the very top of this outcrop with partially faulted and bent layers below.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BtPvVGC1y1o/WXXttnjQ2-I/AAAAAAAATMA/NpkBQB6JRps6goMnWRzZWYxz8HRqYkjwwCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BtPvVGC1y1o/WXXttnjQ2-I/AAAAAAAATMA/NpkBQB6JRps6goMnWRzZWYxz8HRqYkjwwCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket13.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Another great feature of the area is the polygon in the sandstone. Many of these are pentagons or hexagons and are reminiscent of the columnar jointing found in basalt rocks. These however are not cooling fractures but form from the expansion and contraction of the sandstone surface or shrinkage related to the inclusion of clay grains in the sandstone (the former cause is more likely in this case). Here we see polygons within polygons.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PoTbqCnmed0/WXXtuh3S96I/AAAAAAAATMQ/SBha_F3HsW0RXx_blA9rxucw0rcKe02kwCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PoTbqCnmed0/WXXtuh3S96I/AAAAAAAATMQ/SBha_F3HsW0RXx_blA9rxucw0rcKe02kwCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket16.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>I often refer to these textures as "biscuit" rocks, since they appear like a pan of freshly cooked biscuits.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eGddTxREIkY/WXXtuRBe1CI/AAAAAAAATMM/UB0fxmziU-kqVUwWFs0V_UkazHyTvEg5wCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eGddTxREIkY/WXXtuRBe1CI/AAAAAAAATMM/UB0fxmziU-kqVUwWFs0V_UkazHyTvEg5wCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket15.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Don't forget the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B-roll" target="_blank">B roll</a>!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dZe1CXmNsa4/WXXtvFqRuMI/AAAAAAAATMU/ITNoI71fZ4IQdX8rm6wbdbi0j4xTUPZMwCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dZe1CXmNsa4/WXXtvFqRuMI/AAAAAAAATMU/ITNoI71fZ4IQdX8rm6wbdbi0j4xTUPZMwCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket17.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The host walking on the biscuit rocks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dumQmHEFNrg/WXXtvfhx__I/AAAAAAAATMY/1yJbmmWFt8goPFhLXYpVPBjWu8Do-F6DQCLcBGAs/s1600/White%2BPocket18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dumQmHEFNrg/WXXtvfhx__I/AAAAAAAATMY/1yJbmmWFt8goPFhLXYpVPBjWu8Do-F6DQCLcBGAs/s640/White%2BPocket18.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;times&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif;"><span style="font-family: -webkit-standard;">This was an enjoyable project to work on and I am thankful for TV-man Union in Japan for using my services. The feature will air in Japan on September 23 at 9 PM.</span></span>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-40137924027140364452017-06-24T14:45:00.001-07:002017-06-29T09:47:11.149-07:00Traveling to Iceland with Smithsonian JourneysI've been in Iceland for the last week, lecturing on a <a href="https://www.smithsonianjourneys.org/tours/iceland/itinerary/" target="_blank">Smithsonian Journeys</a> natural history tour. This is the same itinerary I participated with in September of last year and many of the places visited are the same from that trip.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e5WrBeANZ3E/WU16b9hg18I/AAAAAAAATAQ/FOmtd32e5OAeMHYcG8LYcl_s3x-xzewSgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e5WrBeANZ3E/WU16b9hg18I/AAAAAAAATAQ/FOmtd32e5OAeMHYcG8LYcl_s3x-xzewSgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Hraunfoss (literally Lava Falls) near Reykhold. The dark line of rocks above the falls is a porous post-glacial lava flow that spread over and above an older, denser lava flow. Snow and rain water seep into a shallow water table and emerge at the contact of the two lava flows.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MouM-Fz_GQw/WU16bwadKxI/AAAAAAAATAU/qutbi6hB89Up5X4K3iPMBAgzwz2gFih9ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MouM-Fz_GQw/WU16bwadKxI/AAAAAAAATAU/qutbi6hB89Up5X4K3iPMBAgzwz2gFih9ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Near Arnarstapi on the Snæfellnes Peninsula. Note the color and texture difference within this single lava flow in the high cliff. The top (orange) part is called the <i>colonnade</i> and the gray lower part is called the <i>entablature</i>. The irregular joint pattern in the entablature is due to water seeping into the flow while it was cooling. The colonnade cooled in the absence of water. In the Grand Canyon and elsewhere, these textures may be reversed when river water flowed over the top of cooling lava flow.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xa50yS4An8U/WU16b5pYhEI/AAAAAAAATAM/M2YP3mm83043xYcQkI-nTKpKp5n10bj-ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xa50yS4An8U/WU16b5pYhEI/AAAAAAAATAM/M2YP3mm83043xYcQkI-nTKpKp5n10bj-ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This lava flow erupted in sea water during the last glaciation (more than 10,000 years) and the lower part of the flow became protected when it cooled and so the colonnade is located on the bottom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yU5Blxb1Noo/WU16ctNXtnI/AAAAAAAATAY/d5Gf8YMJBv4q82QprF_DVrgNwLUCf0Y3gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yU5Blxb1Noo/WU16ctNXtnI/AAAAAAAATAY/d5Gf8YMJBv4q82QprF_DVrgNwLUCf0Y3gCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Beautiful coastline on the Snæfellnes Peninsula.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-78W7QmeXaSQ/WU16cr5u4KI/AAAAAAAATAg/cOdNWhHVSH0BVG4LUUC7MHYbY7WfINi7wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="919" height="450" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-78W7QmeXaSQ/WU16cr5u4KI/AAAAAAAATAg/cOdNWhHVSH0BVG4LUUC7MHYbY7WfINi7wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The bay at Arnarstapi and a highly eroded lava flow.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KfJvjzmgFfg/WU16cp3exWI/AAAAAAAATAc/biouCyTr2mwHhrePrCkF8gaFX2TvTUkuQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="828" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KfJvjzmgFfg/WU16cp3exWI/AAAAAAAATAc/biouCyTr2mwHhrePrCkF8gaFX2TvTUkuQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Iceland flags over the North Atlantic Ocean.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4W5WZDqSh-8/WU16dfrmumI/AAAAAAAATAk/GD7lVkCAd_QdGKa4JwsMGe5V4TQcpFOhACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4W5WZDqSh-8/WU16dfrmumI/AAAAAAAATAk/GD7lVkCAd_QdGKa4JwsMGe5V4TQcpFOhACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>At Lóndrangar along the southwest corner of the peninsula, one can view the inside throat (or core) of a volcano. The towers are the eroded remnants of the vent material, with the whitish cliffs to the right composed of tephra (ash) erupted from the vent.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3hEk5s3vXA/WU16dSHFreI/AAAAAAAATAo/ImjWGs8KcY01TDW1Ux7mZiH_GfEhxO1YgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3hEk5s3vXA/WU16dSHFreI/AAAAAAAATAo/ImjWGs8KcY01TDW1Ux7mZiH_GfEhxO1YgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce008.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>We were very fortunate to travel the whole day on the peninsula with the geologist who made the <a href="http://en.ni.is/geology/geological-maps/maps-geology-600000" target="_blank">geologic map of Iceland</a>, Haukur Jóhannessen. Traveling with his map allowed me to know what rocks we were looking at during the entire trip.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-opek7EVTs1w/WU16daKvGPI/AAAAAAAATAs/Xo_oEp4reFwGMwt8Tej3aKjyvt77eIqxQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-opek7EVTs1w/WU16daKvGPI/AAAAAAAATAs/Xo_oEp4reFwGMwt8Tej3aKjyvt77eIqxQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sitting in the North Atlantic, one is never far from bad weather in Iceland. But it does have a certain drama to it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lc6dayHb7Bo/WU16d2y7uVI/AAAAAAAATA0/ZfYE-VjBT9UUcTuTN47WbL3WevuEMUZ6wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="909" height="420" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lc6dayHb7Bo/WU16d2y7uVI/AAAAAAAATA0/ZfYE-VjBT9UUcTuTN47WbL3WevuEMUZ6wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We visited the Volcano Museum in Stykkisshólmur and saw this engraving of the Snæfellnes volcano by Carl Emanuel Larsen, completed in 1845. Note the three-masted ship anchored in the bay to the right.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BfGuOb3izjc/WU16d4KR8tI/AAAAAAAATAw/JbPFfWbFcwIU7S0jbbRJDegO9N0bJ61CgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BfGuOb3izjc/WU16d4KR8tI/AAAAAAAATAw/JbPFfWbFcwIU7S0jbbRJDegO9N0bJ61CgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Near Stykkisshólmur, this rhyolite volcano exposed colorful rocks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pleiNR_3ctE/WU1_UgtMU_I/AAAAAAAATDA/F1PFiG40IC4QIdcfaSwiQYHi6b4sTZISQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-06-23%2Bat%2B8.50.30%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="1600" height="420" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pleiNR_3ctE/WU1_UgtMU_I/AAAAAAAATDA/F1PFiG40IC4QIdcfaSwiQYHi6b4sTZISQCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-06-23%2Bat%2B8.50.30%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And then Haukur mentioned that this was the site of an ancient landslide, which I have outline here on the same photograph as above. For more pictures of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, see my blog posting from September 25, 2016 <a href="http://earthly-musings.blogspot.is/2016/09/adventure-in-iceland-with-smithsonian.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Now we move on to the North Coast of Iceland.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rHXCo4oukKs/WU16edx9LOI/AAAAAAAATA8/cTEwGmd1dNoJn70P0htVObfZPyOZFDH6wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="899" height="474" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rHXCo4oukKs/WU16edx9LOI/AAAAAAAATA8/cTEwGmd1dNoJn70P0htVObfZPyOZFDH6wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Leaving the town of Akureryi headed to the North Coast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yA2Uep-PieI/WU16d6NedzI/AAAAAAAATA4/yCdOJoQpsMcLm7uXas2L47uPVz_htwKdgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yA2Uep-PieI/WU16d6NedzI/AAAAAAAATA4/yCdOJoQpsMcLm7uXas2L47uPVz_htwKdgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce012.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>In the little town of Husvik, a monument to the training of the Apollo astronauts in 1965 and 1967.<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7NvdRphTJ0/WU16esnbxRI/AAAAAAAATBE/Tv2LDKvSCYsFSv_DfNHgSTQOumx3moirQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1000" height="432" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7NvdRphTJ0/WU16esnbxRI/AAAAAAAATBE/Tv2LDKvSCYsFSv_DfNHgSTQOumx3moirQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="http://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/atlantic-puffin" target="_blank">Atlantic Puffins</a> (<i>Fraturcula artica</i>) nest on the hillside facing the north shore of Iceland near Tjörnes. People love puffins!</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XxVm0de5Q98/WU16egVrPWI/AAAAAAAATBA/uzVFnBcnWdoUB67eJXvQumg1GY1mzASZQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="706" height="434" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XxVm0de5Q98/WU16egVrPWI/AAAAAAAATBA/uzVFnBcnWdoUB67eJXvQumg1GY1mzASZQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A view of the <a href="http://www.amusingplanet.com/2014/04/the-pseudocraters-of-iceland.html" target="_blank">pseudo-craters</a> at Lake Myvatn, where hot lava poured over marshy ground about 2,800 year ago, causing stream blasts that created these "rootless" cones. Features like this are often called maars in North America.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxdsbYzXzFc/WU16e7tOhVI/AAAAAAAATBI/oFebyNCOfj8a1K5ikDg0J-R2kTNBgPwcQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="614" data-original-width="929" height="422" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxdsbYzXzFc/WU16e7tOhVI/AAAAAAAATBI/oFebyNCOfj8a1K5ikDg0J-R2kTNBgPwcQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The geothermal area at Lake Myvatn. My-vatn means midge-water in the Icelandic language and we saw zillions of them. They do not bite but swarm around everywhere.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fuSC0RY3s-Q/WU16faj_eUI/AAAAAAAATBQ/vwCWuON2yh09F7UiLoZSqvw7wPALEDLowCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fuSC0RY3s-Q/WU16faj_eUI/AAAAAAAATBQ/vwCWuON2yh09F7UiLoZSqvw7wPALEDLowCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Dettifoss waterfall, considered Europe's largest.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzFkOwwsBUs/WU16fahQHnI/AAAAAAAATBM/ejtUrP1IJZYMCUr20w2dHGizJOQm3WLCgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzFkOwwsBUs/WU16fahQHnI/AAAAAAAATBM/ejtUrP1IJZYMCUr20w2dHGizJOQm3WLCgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>At Dettifoss, the car park is about 1/2 kilometer away from the falls and one must walk across this channel of an outburst flood, which in Icelandic are called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J%C3%B6kulhlaup" target="_blank">Jökulhlaups</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uMIejM45kDE/WU16fpeRsXI/AAAAAAAATBU/bkL9mFGminIEeyYvEqcfiuRN0HdnyfanQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uMIejM45kDE/WU16fpeRsXI/AAAAAAAATBU/bkL9mFGminIEeyYvEqcfiuRN0HdnyfanQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This outcrop is located to the west of the car park and is the highest deposit from the outburst flood.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Py2dpNgPxeI/WU6u-SKggzI/AAAAAAAATDQ/sk1-XZdbWnIgp_IazoyTlEFJf3f5AxYqgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-06-24%2Bat%2B6.26.05%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="422" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Py2dpNgPxeI/WU6u-SKggzI/AAAAAAAATDQ/sk1-XZdbWnIgp_IazoyTlEFJf3f5AxYqgCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-06-24%2Bat%2B6.26.05%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>I have outlined the extend of this channel (above) but the floods were much bigger than this. Three of them have been documented since the end of the last Ice Age coming to the north from the Vatnjökull glacier.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NL7hcHkRHqs/WU16gE41oAI/AAAAAAAATBc/wurMSNRJzjs2vcmbjSWmme9KOBoTWJCzwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NL7hcHkRHqs/WU16gE41oAI/AAAAAAAATBc/wurMSNRJzjs2vcmbjSWmme9KOBoTWJCzwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The geothermal area at Hvirir has lots of steam vents, boiling mud pots, and hissing springs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yJ_AyuYTunU/WU16gAluyVI/AAAAAAAATBY/SGefhbkRyEIRDOE5VQ5LWcTCEIOrk9aLACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yJ_AyuYTunU/WU16gAluyVI/AAAAAAAATBY/SGefhbkRyEIRDOE5VQ5LWcTCEIOrk9aLACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Here, sulphur deposits ring the openings in a steam vent. I like the smell of the Earth's interior!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9pBHpbKmW8c/WU16gVZWjuI/AAAAAAAATBg/Xa32V1iu65ou2K1uE2Rx1wHnae_i2OqHACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9pBHpbKmW8c/WU16gVZWjuI/AAAAAAAATBg/Xa32V1iu65ou2K1uE2Rx1wHnae_i2OqHACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>View to the south from near Lake Myvatn. The giant <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skjaldbrei%C3%B0ur" target="_blank">Skjaldbeiđur shield volcano</a> looms on the horizon. For more pictures of the North Coast of Iceland, see my blog posting from September 27, 2016 <a href="http://earthly-musings.blogspot.is/2016/09/adventure-in-iceland-with-smithsonian_27.html" target="_blank">here</a>. We now move to the South Coast where I experienced my best weather ever for this part of Iceland.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-678n8rvjW9Q/WU16rVvBIPI/AAAAAAAATBo/5W7p7rvX300a6WphQ5ESHOQmWWsyeNhZgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-678n8rvjW9Q/WU16rVvBIPI/AAAAAAAATBo/5W7p7rvX300a6WphQ5ESHOQmWWsyeNhZgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Gulf Stream rams against the south shore of Iceland making this the wettest side of the island. Consequently, there is much greenery here along with hundreds of waterfalls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bTfll6p9j8Q/WU16rVh_a0I/AAAAAAAATBs/jwESEHRgfhA-gVCqSjSsivjqBdqWqXkCwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bTfll6p9j8Q/WU16rVh_a0I/AAAAAAAATBs/jwESEHRgfhA-gVCqSjSsivjqBdqWqXkCwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sk<span style="background-color: white; color: #545454;"><span style="font-family: &quot;times&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif;">ó</span></span>garfoss on the South Coast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ytsEUZHdjIw/WU16rWNzCvI/AAAAAAAATBk/JbuvyJYwSXscQ-s_7uT3kniRKO5ce176ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ytsEUZHdjIw/WU16rWNzCvI/AAAAAAAATBk/JbuvyJYwSXscQ-s_7uT3kniRKO5ce176ACLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Alaska lupine was brought here in 1885 but was planted widely to control soil erosion beginning in 1960. It&nbsp;<a href="https://grapevine.is/mag/articles/2011/08/25/alaskan-wolf-invades-iceland/" target="_blank">is now rampant across the landscape</a>, outcompeting native species.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f5vkEHcAOaA/WU16sQKhnrI/AAAAAAAATB0/27wb02QER9weU2TMsegCiIVafP5_ihfPwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f5vkEHcAOaA/WU16sQKhnrI/AAAAAAAATB0/27wb02QER9weU2TMsegCiIVafP5_ihfPwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It is a beautiful plant however.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MctQrDH-7_U/WU16sXdndlI/AAAAAAAATBw/Z2sDwhhqajs5TXGO365aLC6afXm2mkRHgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MctQrDH-7_U/WU16sXdndlI/AAAAAAAATBw/Z2sDwhhqajs5TXGO365aLC6afXm2mkRHgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>South Coast view across a lupine field.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-13Vqkbq89qI/WU16sjDFPYI/AAAAAAAATB4/-iW702J-RjIMVZAy4BaHqxyy9ib86EDqQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-13Vqkbq89qI/WU16sjDFPYI/AAAAAAAATB4/-iW702J-RjIMVZAy4BaHqxyy9ib86EDqQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce028.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Flowers on top of the basalt columns near Reynisfjara.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6IYmOmZeMHo/WU16sy6-6HI/AAAAAAAATB8/4fhOV_zVG2M5Na3UJD96RkNgoUx1hCWtQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6IYmOmZeMHo/WU16sy6-6HI/AAAAAAAATB8/4fhOV_zVG2M5Na3UJD96RkNgoUx1hCWtQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sea stacks at Reynisfjara are the eroded remains of a volcanic vent.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-12NUyoJKZAc/WU16s1vBfSI/AAAAAAAATCA/JqgFK46oXAkxd0ksiUqPoTdDS-kK9uPJQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-12NUyoJKZAc/WU16s1vBfSI/AAAAAAAATCA/JqgFK46oXAkxd0ksiUqPoTdDS-kK9uPJQCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Hyaloclastite rocks (lava quenched after erupting into water or ice) have tumbled down onto the black sand beach here.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kzn1tRykd_k/WU16tHCSUBI/AAAAAAAATCE/WozeVaBmcZE2NcSFBNvC7RUqMjWXfw1dwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kzn1tRykd_k/WU16tHCSUBI/AAAAAAAATCE/WozeVaBmcZE2NcSFBNvC7RUqMjWXfw1dwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Close-up of a hyaloclastite.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTfMnZQY1Mc/WU16tkPh5AI/AAAAAAAATCI/tYzNSEOrNVUxrg_8cUW8pLm0dPA6AJDJgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTfMnZQY1Mc/WU16tkPh5AI/AAAAAAAATCI/tYzNSEOrNVUxrg_8cUW8pLm0dPA6AJDJgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Top view of basalt columns at Reynisfjara.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mrn00LYSdwQ/WU16tnvNrrI/AAAAAAAATCM/Xf-VLTrwbM0pdlYDqRLSeaRrT56ScNAfwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mrn00LYSdwQ/WU16tnvNrrI/AAAAAAAATCM/Xf-VLTrwbM0pdlYDqRLSeaRrT56ScNAfwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Typical Icelandic scene on the South Coast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zo1QQYohvVQ/WU16t6vfL_I/AAAAAAAATCQ/fqau0bnzmGIDTIgRDQlDDwDCoKQgP_yfgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zo1QQYohvVQ/WU16t6vfL_I/AAAAAAAATCQ/fqau0bnzmGIDTIgRDQlDDwDCoKQgP_yfgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The church at Vik, the southernmost town in Iceland.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U-Ma-hmqnV0/WU16uQj_VGI/AAAAAAAATCU/OC6AWAgwu4kTM7U2vADwZsF08oaKc0SPgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U-Ma-hmqnV0/WU16uQj_VGI/AAAAAAAATCU/OC6AWAgwu4kTM7U2vADwZsF08oaKc0SPgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce035.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Sejalandsfoss.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8vYcb2FE7k/WU16upez2wI/AAAAAAAATCc/4P7i2atgCfkRNY4VNUtVuzWJ3jD7IWqNgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8vYcb2FE7k/WU16upez2wI/AAAAAAAATCc/4P7i2atgCfkRNY4VNUtVuzWJ3jD7IWqNgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce038.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This waterfall can be accessed from behind and when doing this, a rainbow sometimes appears.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDbU6m3Q_dc/WU16uSwAFNI/AAAAAAAATCY/B-O4xtR9HjksV4usdRWC0C2Dd7n4Wy-xwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDbU6m3Q_dc/WU16uSwAFNI/AAAAAAAATCY/B-O4xtR9HjksV4usdRWC0C2Dd7n4Wy-xwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="http://volcano.oregonstate.edu/vwdocs/volc_images/europe_west_asia/eruption_history.html" target="_blank">Mt. Hekla</a>, Icelands most dangerous volcano. It last erupted in 2000 and poses a major threat <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/iceland-volcano-hekla-erupt-ready-to-blow-experts-warning-flights-disruption-a7092886.html" target="_blank">due to its&nbsp;</a><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u>explosiveness</u></span>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-642HOpntqVk/WU16uw5CBAI/AAAAAAAATCg/7COJ7skG6bY1Uzd0pR45P8VcAgnIXpg5wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-642HOpntqVk/WU16uw5CBAI/AAAAAAAATCg/7COJ7skG6bY1Uzd0pR45P8VcAgnIXpg5wCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>On our last day we visited a geothermal plant where they had a great rock collection from the island.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7mmwQXx2a4/WU16vP9MEGI/AAAAAAAATCk/Pnxf1pyoBtIcRc5BjLjWC19_TSR8qPrCgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7mmwQXx2a4/WU16vP9MEGI/AAAAAAAATCk/Pnxf1pyoBtIcRc5BjLjWC19_TSR8qPrCgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A section of insulated pipe that brings hot water to Reykjavik.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aTenGnIc_WU/WU16vK9DH8I/AAAAAAAATCo/xoB7jwAkY7g7EpVD8bo2dmfIjWTq7V6PwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aTenGnIc_WU/WU16vK9DH8I/AAAAAAAATCo/xoB7jwAkY7g7EpVD8bo2dmfIjWTq7V6PwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>It looks like a street map of Reykjavik but it is actually a map showing the hot water distribution system in a typical neighborhood.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-odNNKXwbF-w/WU16vUezuYI/AAAAAAAATCs/2iVPJkH1akYjR10GIn1Ctz9joRu7GQywgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-odNNKXwbF-w/WU16vUezuYI/AAAAAAAATCs/2iVPJkH1akYjR10GIn1Ctz9joRu7GQywgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The turbines are powered by steam.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KuQVQGHeCc8/WU16v3dX1KI/AAAAAAAATCw/j4f19hiXKSkIRQ9ZXRL_s-2M2j72g2_NwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KuQVQGHeCc8/WU16v3dX1KI/AAAAAAAATCw/j4f19hiXKSkIRQ9ZXRL_s-2M2j72g2_NwCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Geothermal plants are very carbon-friendly and only generate about 15% of the CO2 that an equivalent carbon-fueled plant would make. However, Iceland is a <u>very</u> forward-looking country and this amount is deemed unacceptable. So the geothermal companies have developed a way to inject the CO2 back into the volcanic rocks, setting up a chemical reaction that deposits limestone on the basalt (the white on this basalt rock).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f38oVIIU-a4/WU16v6tyNbI/AAAAAAAATC0/WanqtDwrByIvUqvhpJKQEiYIuVytVGxQgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2BIce044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f38oVIIU-a4/WU16v6tyNbI/AAAAAAAATC0/WanqtDwrByIvUqvhpJKQEiYIuVytVGxQgCLcBGAs/s640/2017%2BIce044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I highly recommend a visit to this fascinating country and will be leading another tour for Smithsonian Journeys July 5 to 15, 2018. Whomever you go with and whenever you go, take a geologist with you - there is so much to see and learn about.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q-IiYshajw/WVUu3UvfQtI/AAAAAAAATD8/rk5os1Uxs6kihh_znlxvv8SYwcsYoZKwQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1100%2Bcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q-IiYshajw/WVUu3UvfQtI/AAAAAAAATD8/rk5os1Uxs6kihh_znlxvv8SYwcsYoZKwQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1100%2Bcopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Mike DeVault took this picture of me at the end of our trip while visiting Reynisfjara. Thanks Mike!</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-80915130560891873492017-06-04T20:47:00.002-07:002017-06-09T16:13:09.230-07:00Northern Arizona University Geology Alumni Run the Colorado River in Grand CanyonThree river trips in Grand Canyon and a quick trip to Hawaii - all between April 17 and May 28. Whew! That was a whirlwind 41 days but all of it great fun, great work and now complete. I get a few weeks off before venturing to Iceland with Smithsonian Journeys on June 15.<br /><div><br /></div><div>This last river trip was quite special as it included alumni from the <a href="http://catalog.nau.edu/Catalog/details?plan=GLGMS&amp;catalogYear=1718" target="_blank">Geology Program</a> at Northern Arizona University. In all, we had 15 alumni and two current professors in the program. It was a thrill to be able to discuss the geology of the Grand Canyon in such depth - those who graduated from the program as early as 1971 have not lost any interest in the subject. It was great to meet those who came before me, as well as those who came after. This is sure to become a biennial affair.<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6QYth3eAu-k/WTSMoOvOyTI/AAAAAAAAS5A/t4W4F_PTqzY4MZIYtTF7h0u-u94gawefQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6QYth3eAu-k/WTSMoOvOyTI/AAAAAAAAS5A/t4W4F_PTqzY4MZIYtTF7h0u-u94gawefQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Friday morning, May 20 - it snowed all night in Flagstaff. While not impossible for this time of year, in Flagstaff, it was pretty late in the season for even a dusting of snow. What a way to begin the trip.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewIHdteZVY8/WTSMxOfQTDI/AAAAAAAAS5M/z1un0hnFAMI5vIUwXiojbzoQ3qvFJQ3VACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="957" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewIHdteZVY8/WTSMxOfQTDI/AAAAAAAAS5M/z1un0hnFAMI5vIUwXiojbzoQ3qvFJQ3VACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The trip was designed with a full day field trip on the way up to Lees Ferry. The first stop was at a viewpoint for Sunset Crater and the San Francisco Peaks. As I exited the van, someone said, "What can you teach me about the Peaks that I don't already know?" Oh boy, I thought. This could be a tough day. But it turns out that there was plenty to share about recent discoveries. Here Professor Ryan Porter speaks about southwestern tectonics as it relates to the San Francisco Volcanic Field.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_SRRpqrvNkw/WTSMw_50Q4I/AAAAAAAAS5I/Fo3q3rWeolEa2sUe_ull4xeinohOtO0lQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="806" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_SRRpqrvNkw/WTSMw_50Q4I/AAAAAAAAS5I/Fo3q3rWeolEa2sUe_ull4xeinohOtO0lQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We also discussed how Basin and Range thinning of the crust might be causing hot asthenosphere to eat away at the lower crust beneath the southwestern edge of the Colorado Plateau. Turns out there was lots of new stuff to engage in and we had to cut it short with all that was planned for the day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fge4Xy4200o/WTSMwWFxJRI/AAAAAAAAS5E/GuLRNhdzj-Qs3V9aW3DgEd5mp9DvGxKXQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fge4Xy4200o/WTSMwWFxJRI/AAAAAAAAS5E/GuLRNhdzj-Qs3V9aW3DgEd5mp9DvGxKXQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I have always wanted to view the Grand Canyon from the top before embarking on a river trip and this field trip allowed me to do just that. We even saw two boats on the river as we enjoyed lunch here. We also stopped in the Painted Desert to view a petrified stump in the Chinle Formation before overnighting at the Cliff Dwellers Lodge near Lees Ferry.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zy6DJ-IAu1A/WTSMxr6-5HI/AAAAAAAAS5Q/rpXdc_I5AHMpCx-dMzIoI1sZTk_Uj5R7QCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zy6DJ-IAu1A/WTSMxr6-5HI/AAAAAAAAS5Q/rpXdc_I5AHMpCx-dMzIoI1sZTk_Uj5R7QCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The amount of beer and wine brought on this trip was impressive and reminded me of the geology field trips that we used to take in the 1970s and 1980s.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YQQK-Zkubk4/WTSMx2hSFEI/AAAAAAAAS5U/Zmr_1E6raUoIIhYTumO48EJqdCzC1egowCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YQQK-Zkubk4/WTSMx2hSFEI/AAAAAAAAS5U/Zmr_1E6raUoIIhYTumO48EJqdCzC1egowCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Our boatmen had to rearrange some other gear to make room for it all. It was going to be hot out and we were going to be thirsty.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dkxqE1fd-Eg/WTSMyESKdlI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/is-ffgU2MpkldtTdpVAK8rekKgxR0bqyQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dkxqE1fd-Eg/WTSMyESKdlI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/is-ffgU2MpkldtTdpVAK8rekKgxR0bqyQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>After leaving Lees Ferry, we passed the contact of the Toroweap Formation (above) and the Coconino Sandstone (below). Christine Turner (1974) did her Master's work on the Toroweap Fm. and it received the most love it ever has since she completed her thesis.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_H9Yj5hIXN4/WTSMymFgPiI/AAAAAAAAS5c/yVpqz0y2-3MgeEr3-7E3jKNb5X5b0NHYACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_H9Yj5hIXN4/WTSMymFgPiI/AAAAAAAAS5c/yVpqz0y2-3MgeEr3-7E3jKNb5X5b0NHYACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Small slump block along the river.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHH9lqnj2Z8/WTSMyzHrZfI/AAAAAAAAS5g/YLvnFftpfq098zXI807AsWYuZHvqV9CTQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHH9lqnj2Z8/WTSMyzHrZfI/AAAAAAAAS5g/YLvnFftpfq098zXI807AsWYuZHvqV9CTQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Which way does the Colorado River go? Even with all of these trained geologists, the answer to that question came out the same as it always does - about 50-50. But the river goes left here with Soap Creek coming from the right. Soap Creek is one of the north-directed tributaries in this part of the Grand Canyon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jRl74UpGNZE/WTSMzFOmUOI/AAAAAAAAS5k/tv3Z_WUCE-QPQZYx71xSb7jbreKGcfSGQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jRl74UpGNZE/WTSMzFOmUOI/AAAAAAAAS5k/tv3Z_WUCE-QPQZYx71xSb7jbreKGcfSGQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Clear, cold water. A treat on a hot day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v3hmBTn_wqo/WTSMzeu5nsI/AAAAAAAAS5o/gr06w9v8iikl_umb7S5AM-bE0JtNpf_EACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v3hmBTn_wqo/WTSMzeu5nsI/AAAAAAAAS5o/gr06w9v8iikl_umb7S5AM-bE0JtNpf_EACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Note the channel-form in the photo (center), cut within the Supai Group of rocks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fa9YDWa9kOg/WTSM0MOicvI/AAAAAAAAS5w/YLGDMs7e87IGt6jsfJKYW28XgW563UT3QCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fa9YDWa9kOg/WTSM0MOicvI/AAAAAAAAS5w/YLGDMs7e87IGt6jsfJKYW28XgW563UT3QCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Our first hike was up in North Canyon. Dick Leigh (1971) was constantly amazed at the geology for the entire 10 days.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vr6-cI6HY-Y/WTSM0FQRojI/AAAAAAAAS5s/CduclQ7Wkt0ZzQLug4VWADcfSLdAWRp3ACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="886" height="462" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vr6-cI6HY-Y/WTSM0FQRojI/AAAAAAAAS5s/CduclQ7Wkt0ZzQLug4VWADcfSLdAWRp3ACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Looking down-canyon from the reflecting pool, one can see how the massive Supai sandstone body fractures by exfoliation. Note how the fractures parallel the walls <i><u>and</u></i> the floor of the canyon. As the material is eroded away, confining pressure is released within the rocks and they "pop" out slightly to give this pattern.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A_2MpfiCIRc/WTSM0GHLqtI/AAAAAAAAS50/bejsOmSpuYczYGqSDBAe7WLeBaMrGNFcACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="760" height="524" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A_2MpfiCIRc/WTSM0GHLqtI/AAAAAAAAS50/bejsOmSpuYczYGqSDBAe7WLeBaMrGNFcACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Our first night's chair circle. Each night someone took a turn after dinner with a geologic theme talk.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GhuNK0hrqNo/WTSM0TGBhnI/AAAAAAAAS54/hGKZ09FH_nUsneZaQEv6YwjOiozxjivuQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="854" height="514" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GhuNK0hrqNo/WTSM0TGBhnI/AAAAAAAAS54/hGKZ09FH_nUsneZaQEv6YwjOiozxjivuQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>In the mornings before we launched, the geologic maps were laid out to discuss the days sights and hikes. Here Professor Mike Smith talks over some Ron Blakey paleogeographic maps.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_yvwWyjHqFA/WTSM1CiM-qI/AAAAAAAAS58/qo3uuyOyKv8KOIZY9j3GWW0SiOUqjABIwCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_yvwWyjHqFA/WTSM1CiM-qI/AAAAAAAAS58/qo3uuyOyKv8KOIZY9j3GWW0SiOUqjABIwCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A cavern in the top of the Redwall Limestone filled and chocked shut with its own rubble.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-69hId5KVzws/WTSM1UipPvI/AAAAAAAAS6A/_H-3qCnNrb0kF6zThk3oWm0J_1J7dCm2QCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-69hId5KVzws/WTSM1UipPvI/AAAAAAAAS6A/_H-3qCnNrb0kF6zThk3oWm0J_1J7dCm2QCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums017.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Staining on the Redwall facilitated by run-off from the red layers above.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-urk1cFscFsE/WTSM1ag50RI/AAAAAAAAS6E/YRHNYOZgRC0tm7V5y2kdb0bshmGxKw4CwCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="809" height="514" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-urk1cFscFsE/WTSM1ag50RI/AAAAAAAAS6E/YRHNYOZgRC0tm7V5y2kdb0bshmGxKw4CwCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A fossil of a nautiloid in the Redwall.<br />\<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pWvignY8fSU/WTSM18T5NdI/AAAAAAAAS6I/rfWtD8x_3TwuhiBaXXLS743oCB6bNUrBACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pWvignY8fSU/WTSM18T5NdI/AAAAAAAAS6I/rfWtD8x_3TwuhiBaXXLS743oCB6bNUrBACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums019.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Giant, dog-tooth spar crystals near river mile 35. These calcite crystals are about 14 inches long.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cwMmA3A3VJE/WTSM2f6PIzI/AAAAAAAAS6M/gAq8jbbwdCoVK-qcoRw0N_Y6Ecfi5xq4ACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cwMmA3A3VJE/WTSM2f6PIzI/AAAAAAAAS6M/gAq8jbbwdCoVK-qcoRw0N_Y6Ecfi5xq4ACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>All the way down in the Devonian Temple Butte Limestone. Here a channel has been incised into the underlying Muav Limestone and filled by the purplish beds of the Temple Butte.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cnjxPHMrdZ4/WTSM2eWULlI/AAAAAAAAS6Q/EsQ8K1WjvPwUuQICOXj_vrvcgwWuZ8wcACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cnjxPHMrdZ4/WTSM2eWULlI/AAAAAAAAS6Q/EsQ8K1WjvPwUuQICOXj_vrvcgwWuZ8wcACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums021.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>This rockfall at river mile 42.5 occurred in the winter of 2011-2012 with quite a debris field all the way to the river.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TXItfI1I4R8/WTSM2ugLZOI/AAAAAAAAS6U/V4OxdrR76dQdf4pXZ6FROMbY4fu4F4KCACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="935" data-original-width="675" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TXItfI1I4R8/WTSM2ugLZOI/AAAAAAAAS6U/V4OxdrR76dQdf4pXZ6FROMbY4fu4F4KCACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums022.JPG" width="462" /></a></div>Reflections near river mile 43.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bbLjWjlATEI/WTSM26QgG7I/AAAAAAAAS6Y/VMR3Sr4fRHAIoCjmS4PllkkZQU-1ccnEQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bbLjWjlATEI/WTSM26QgG7I/AAAAAAAAS6Y/VMR3Sr4fRHAIoCjmS4PllkkZQU-1ccnEQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Steve Scott and Marvin Glotfelty yuck it up in camp.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OtyVBkiCz8g/WTSM3LHZaQI/AAAAAAAAS6c/Lg4JYqtOIN4y9hNjWcJdtPeFfk9_jmgNwCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OtyVBkiCz8g/WTSM3LHZaQI/AAAAAAAAS6c/Lg4JYqtOIN4y9hNjWcJdtPeFfk9_jmgNwCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our crew with Colorado River and Trail Expeditions was awesome (as usual). From left to right, John Toner, lead boatman; Mikenna Cloakey, boatman, Tristan Helzer, swamper, and Tony Williams, swamper. (Note: a swamper is a deck-hand to a river boatman, although in Tony's case, he easily is as knowledgeable as any boatman about the Grand Canyon).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-823OoVuJCUQ/WTSM9g3DDzI/AAAAAAAAS6o/AriqftY7C2M8RNSC_ArmzZ0pZCEHzaLzACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-823OoVuJCUQ/WTSM9g3DDzI/AAAAAAAAS6o/AriqftY7C2M8RNSC_ArmzZ0pZCEHzaLzACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This large rockfall in Saddle Canyon is in the process of being removed by the stream - note the steep wall just below the large boulder that is created by stream erosion. This rockfall has dammed the side stream, which was in place long enough to completely fill with sediment behind it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-elzHnT6sekY/WTSM9nNF8KI/AAAAAAAAS6k/qCyxtJi-UWUIhENVZPG56RNa_SeiGgTEwCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-elzHnT6sekY/WTSM9nNF8KI/AAAAAAAAS6k/qCyxtJi-UWUIhENVZPG56RNa_SeiGgTEwCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Travertine fill occupying side drainages within the Bright Angel Shale. Preliminary dates on the travertine are about 330,000 years ago.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGDTwaelip4/WTSM9T8X_5I/AAAAAAAAS6g/4fdXQPWHw7oht9gWCUfSOz9ShalA-9DhACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGDTwaelip4/WTSM9T8X_5I/AAAAAAAAS6g/4fdXQPWHw7oht9gWCUfSOz9ShalA-9DhACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Reprecipitated calcium carbonate mud in the bed of the Little Colorado River.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VcpwdQdEnes/WTSM9zhJznI/AAAAAAAAS6s/2pTlbzhEw_kX6l2pCPkAKTn6u9vQ8lfgACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VcpwdQdEnes/WTSM9zhJznI/AAAAAAAAS6s/2pTlbzhEw_kX6l2pCPkAKTn6u9vQ8lfgACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums028.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Reflections at the confluence of the Big and Little Colorado rivers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rQVkqryy934/WTSM-QYOxhI/AAAAAAAAS6w/UesW3_4sofsVDBTr5u8vlOlYD31Xl1laQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rQVkqryy934/WTSM-QYOxhI/AAAAAAAAS6w/UesW3_4sofsVDBTr5u8vlOlYD31Xl1laQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><i><a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=A8zPvn-mkr0C&amp;pg=PA35&amp;lpg=PA35&amp;dq=Boxonia&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=q2SZ4SD6jM&amp;sig=8QIigh9efjpJGTVrr7NBc5s5B64&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjOhoyg36XUAhUL04MKHQSrCi4Q6AEIVjAM#v=onepage&amp;q=Boxonia&amp;f=false" target="_blank">Boxonia</a></i> stromatolite fossil on the beach at Carbon Creek.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwzWCDKuKyg/WTSM-l7bzMI/AAAAAAAAS60/Q0i5RSFLmXYUPH8yg56Gn95C_8ulCnMbQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="920" height="468" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwzWCDKuKyg/WTSM-l7bzMI/AAAAAAAAS60/Q0i5RSFLmXYUPH8yg56Gn95C_8ulCnMbQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The NAU Geology Alumni in Carbon Canyon. Oldest Alumni from left to right (front): Dick Leigh (1972); David Saunders (1971); Tom Daneker (BS 1972 and MS 1975); Christine Turner (1974); Bob Broomhall (1978); Steve Scott (1979); Jeffrey Barnhill (1979); John Noll Jr. (1981); (middle row) Don Hanson (1980); Marvin Glotfelty (BS 1977 and MS 1985); Wayne Ranney (1980 and 1988); Kent Norton (1990); Rick Leone (1991); Amy Wolkowinsky (Instructor); Chris Schick 2006); (back row) Professor Mike Smith, Sedimentology and Stratigraphy; Professor Ryan Porter, Tectonics/Structural geology.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d01oI2cOqtc/WTSM-0Zr2dI/AAAAAAAAS64/QhjvgqMXGPARUQZz2Jl_OjJ4i1qNdRz4gCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d01oI2cOqtc/WTSM-0Zr2dI/AAAAAAAAS64/QhjvgqMXGPARUQZz2Jl_OjJ4i1qNdRz4gCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums031.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Examining the upturned beds of the Tapeats Sandstone in Carbon Canyon along the Butte fault.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oxnmFAfSbJU/WTSM_ZWkc4I/AAAAAAAAS68/Dl6vorl-tj0nAIpQUrBJWT2qM9nKxIOyQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oxnmFAfSbJU/WTSM_ZWkc4I/AAAAAAAAS68/Dl6vorl-tj0nAIpQUrBJWT2qM9nKxIOyQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Hiking in the wide expanse of the Hilltop Ruin area at river mile 72. View to the southwest. The hill is capped by far-traveled Colorado River cobbles and gravel, which in turn are overlain by local landslide deposits. At about 400 feet above the river, these river cobbles may have been deposited about one million years ago when the river had only incised to this level.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jCEilYxtsl4/WTSM_sRqDXI/AAAAAAAAS7A/e0Yry848MY0apQwhnKoeZ2tkQKq7pnbwgCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jCEilYxtsl4/WTSM_sRqDXI/AAAAAAAAS7A/e0Yry848MY0apQwhnKoeZ2tkQKq7pnbwgCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Christine became a mentor to young Tristan who is 19 years old. He certainly got a fill of geology on this trip which may influence his major at the University of Utah.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BdPArgJUC5c/WTSM_-3khYI/AAAAAAAAS7E/KPg2cglHHmMWF-K9mp4OOipbwmhIt5r4gCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BdPArgJUC5c/WTSM_-3khYI/AAAAAAAAS7E/KPg2cglHHmMWF-K9mp4OOipbwmhIt5r4gCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We hiked up Seventy-Five Mile Canyon to see these spectacular water escape structures in the Shinumo Sandstone. These were once flat-lying beds of sand that were disrupted, perhaps when an earthquake jostled the land causing the water in the sand to escape upwards. Tom Daneker had studied the Shinumo Sandstone for his thesis work in 1974.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UnR2d8W4Gqs/WTSNANmozAI/AAAAAAAAS7I/GbfIWHy7g4cCVL4Bbn6ElBr0Q5hoQBN6gCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UnR2d8W4Gqs/WTSNANmozAI/AAAAAAAAS7I/GbfIWHy7g4cCVL4Bbn6ElBr0Q5hoQBN6gCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums035.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>David Saunders (1972) recently retired from Pioneer Natural Resources and shows off his Lumberjack pride. Pioneer has graciously supported the NAU Geology Department through the efforts of David and helped make possible Dr. Ryan Porter's participation in the trip.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-isnKq2pXQKY/WTSNAvlR4GI/AAAAAAAAS7M/uesrQ6x0_nQgL90KoMvXzeqxHl5faAAQQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-isnKq2pXQKY/WTSNAvlR4GI/AAAAAAAAS7M/uesrQ6x0_nQgL90KoMvXzeqxHl5faAAQQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Getting wet in Sockdolager Rapid!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_aCHJyPQAoU/WTSNA6iAXUI/AAAAAAAAS7Q/DHtfvUCk8QUgS4J-Gbt8ESe0GtklOA_RQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_aCHJyPQAoU/WTSNA6iAXUI/AAAAAAAAS7Q/DHtfvUCk8QUgS4J-Gbt8ESe0GtklOA_RQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums037.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>The view from Christmas Card Point looking east toward the Powell Plateau. Those are our two boats at the Deer Creek Falls beach below.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPXuPwexnwU/WTSNBO4jvXI/AAAAAAAAS7U/NsHGtockkjsuUjgrleS2vZzTRmUmvSf5QCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPXuPwexnwU/WTSNBO4jvXI/AAAAAAAAS7U/NsHGtockkjsuUjgrleS2vZzTRmUmvSf5QCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums038.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>We did a hike/swim at Matkatamiba Canyon. I would guess that I only stop at this canyon once every ten trips. It is a beautiful side stream carved within the Muav Limestone.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qjTN5s_7zxQ/WTSNBjsnE2I/AAAAAAAAS7c/swLP8gCQKSA7ZZSQC7Obe2_0AlXjSCs9wCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qjTN5s_7zxQ/WTSNBjsnE2I/AAAAAAAAS7c/swLP8gCQKSA7ZZSQC7Obe2_0AlXjSCs9wCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Clear pool in Matkatamiba Canyon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jLlFqPKSYZU/WTSNBuFB_AI/AAAAAAAAS7Y/BzGqKw_O9TQAqNWFiPNGsgiQWZ5wXZ43ACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jLlFqPKSYZU/WTSNBuFB_AI/AAAAAAAAS7Y/BzGqKw_O9TQAqNWFiPNGsgiQWZ5wXZ43ACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Green reflections in Matkat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xsca1BNUyCE/WTSNCJNCCxI/AAAAAAAAS7g/gnd5wZAwGc8TEbEZnFUrB_izhXZaa0SaQCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xsca1BNUyCE/WTSNCJNCCxI/AAAAAAAAS7g/gnd5wZAwGc8TEbEZnFUrB_izhXZaa0SaQCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="http://www.arkive.org/maidenhair-fern/adiantum-capillus-veneris/" target="_blank">Maidenhair ferns</a>&nbsp;(<i>Adiantum capillus veneris)</i> in Matkat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rs5S199Paag/WTSNC4o3n1I/AAAAAAAAS7k/t1I4jb1Ea78sNOIZCrg-R3QPV42a2PR7gCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rs5S199Paag/WTSNC4o3n1I/AAAAAAAAS7k/t1I4jb1Ea78sNOIZCrg-R3QPV42a2PR7gCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>As if seeing the Grand Canyon in its entirety is not enough, the canyon then displays phenomenal evidence for when volcanoes erupted within and upon the rim of the canyon! Here a fantastic display of columnar jointing is exposed near river mile 185.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cj60eOoi1WQ/WTSNDMtkMAI/AAAAAAAAS7o/CPo7sOXgoko36YMO0Z6F0o706YRWPJBEgCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cj60eOoi1WQ/WTSNDMtkMAI/AAAAAAAAS7o/CPo7sOXgoko36YMO0Z6F0o706YRWPJBEgCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Mike Smith (left) draws diagrams for Ryan Porter at the evening theme talk on Colorado Plateau uplift.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kGjg4yGEtwY/WTSNDIGs1BI/AAAAAAAAS7s/2DgrkjRjpvYFcGGohG50hGBrqkiIndXmgCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kGjg4yGEtwY/WTSNDIGs1BI/AAAAAAAAS7s/2DgrkjRjpvYFcGGohG50hGBrqkiIndXmgCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Fluting in the granite walls of the Lower Gorge in Grand Canyon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FM6nN6XDlpM/WTSNDS4toAI/AAAAAAAAS7w/y3JXJ2vgj3g9rTn0Njjf3XFT5KMesbN8QCLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FM6nN6XDlpM/WTSNDS4toAI/AAAAAAAAS7w/y3JXJ2vgj3g9rTn0Njjf3XFT5KMesbN8QCLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums045.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Drums by Gervasio Barzola (Pioneer Natural Resources) and guitar by Mike Smith (NAU Geology).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft0rMHrjQaI/WTSND_uDPBI/AAAAAAAAS74/ZDsIqFo8_UoI24e6o7C-RohpB_WRJoR7ACLcB/s1600/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="973" height="396" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft0rMHrjQaI/WTSND_uDPBI/AAAAAAAAS74/ZDsIqFo8_UoI24e6o7C-RohpB_WRJoR7ACLcB/s640/NAU%2BGeo%2BAlums046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Farewell dinner on the river. This trip was a great success on all counts and I'm sure that NAU Geology will want to run this trip again. Right now there is talk of a Canyonlands river trip in 2018. More information to follow.</div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-53948686526842821082017-05-16T19:24:00.002-07:002017-05-16T19:24:20.068-07:00Hiking the Carbon Canyon/Lava Chuar Route in Grand CanyonBeen on many trips and writing from Waikiki where my sister will be married on Wednesday. However, here is a second installment from my first river trip in Grand Canyon in April of this year.<br /><br />One of the most well-known geology side hikes on a Colorado River trip in Grand Canyon is the&nbsp;Carbon Canyon/Lava Chuar Route, beginning at River Mile 63. This loop hike ascends the Carbon Creek drainage about one and a quarter miles to the intersection of the Butte Fault, then follows the fault for another one and half miles before descending back to the river in Lava Chuar Canyon for the final one and a quarter miles. There is a fantastic scenery (which is to say - geology) along every part of this loop.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9OnzXLberEg/WRiWsK0nb-I/AAAAAAAAS0s/jwWOYwO6btIcRZqFddoQ84AfFYqVJloNwCLcB/s1600/IMG076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9OnzXLberEg/WRiWsK0nb-I/AAAAAAAAS0s/jwWOYwO6btIcRZqFddoQ84AfFYqVJloNwCLcB/s640/IMG076.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Interesting boulder of Tapeats Sandstone with tafoni texture in the Carbon &nbsp;Creek drainage. There are a dozen or more of these here.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--qvqiKb1-Nk/WRiWr1kvh1I/AAAAAAAAS0o/_B2IVEnE7g4rYwD1w2A_OfU-fAcefQgqgCLcB/s1600/IMG077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--qvqiKb1-Nk/WRiWr1kvh1I/AAAAAAAAS0o/_B2IVEnE7g4rYwD1w2A_OfU-fAcefQgqgCLcB/s640/IMG077.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Iron concretions within the Dox Sandstone are always a curiosity begging an explanation. <a href="ftp://rock.geosociety.org/pub/GSAToday/gt0508.pdf" target="_blank">See </a><a href="http://www.sandatlas.org/arkose/" target="_blank">this science&nbsp;article</a> for a treatment of concretion formation.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d4SjOMYEjss/WRiWroe9MYI/AAAAAAAAS0k/-qNFdeIqej0UmW9jp3Gg4F5QsfeoCPnbwCLcB/s1600/IMG078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d4SjOMYEjss/WRiWroe9MYI/AAAAAAAAS0k/-qNFdeIqej0UmW9jp3Gg4F5QsfeoCPnbwCLcB/s640/IMG078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Gigantic rock failure in Carbon Creek Canyon that necessitates a short but steep climb around it.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jii6BEHml0M/WRiWzMfy68I/AAAAAAAAS00/QyuUXQQqifYWkboXJt3OX4xe7MqFshOMgCLcB/s1600/IMG080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jii6BEHml0M/WRiWzMfy68I/AAAAAAAAS00/QyuUXQQqifYWkboXJt3OX4xe7MqFshOMgCLcB/s640/IMG080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Jim and Billy resting after the climb on natural but well-positioned rock slab chairs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AB8hv6iogc8/WRiWzyywxMI/AAAAAAAAS04/5uz5sjGST8g9yni5oHymbLAJmlVbBfCoACLcB/s1600/IMG081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AB8hv6iogc8/WRiWzyywxMI/AAAAAAAAS04/5uz5sjGST8g9yni5oHymbLAJmlVbBfCoACLcB/s640/IMG081.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Close-up of the Tapeats Sandstone showing its <a href="http://www.sandatlas.org/arkose/" target="_blank">arkosic texture</a>. The feldspar grains (pink) were derived from the Zoroaster Granite. But in this area of the canyon, the Tapeats rests entirely upon younger sedimentary rock units, so the feldspars were brought here from rocks not yet exposed in this part of the canyon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CNxjOngdbWw/WRiW6HGNFII/AAAAAAAAS08/ET0wjP1jR_wJF1qGD3HXkooCm7xgHGnLACLcB/s1600/IMG082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CNxjOngdbWw/WRiW6HGNFII/AAAAAAAAS08/ET0wjP1jR_wJF1qGD3HXkooCm7xgHGnLACLcB/s640/IMG082.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Once on top of the giant rockfall, the creek is confined in a slot canyon within the Tapeats.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-af-pnsjeQao/WRiW7bJl5GI/AAAAAAAAS1A/JiVfh-JK-rw-pFLhvl_rJMlTH4FJiIdaACLcB/s1600/IMG083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-af-pnsjeQao/WRiW7bJl5GI/AAAAAAAAS1A/JiVfh-JK-rw-pFLhvl_rJMlTH4FJiIdaACLcB/s640/IMG083.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Narrow slot canyon along Carbon Creek.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jQX53njm43E/WRiW8LwfqHI/AAAAAAAAS1E/Yz5sL4e3ee0h_HGdUqAf_BvRn6hwINO7gCLcB/s1600/IMG084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jQX53njm43E/WRiW8LwfqHI/AAAAAAAAS1E/Yz5sL4e3ee0h_HGdUqAf_BvRn6hwINO7gCLcB/s640/IMG084.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>And then, the canyon opens up at the site of, and along the trace of the Butte Fault. For an aerial view of the&nbsp;<a href="http://azgeology.azgs.az.gov/azgs/image-of-the-day/images/butte-fault-grand-canyon" target="_blank">Butte Fault see this link</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2w2d2UINs44/WRiXAg_-omI/AAAAAAAAS1I/ZIUCMrY8FvkQh9P46qC77s-VDDIQGS92QCLcB/s1600/IMG085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2w2d2UINs44/WRiXAg_-omI/AAAAAAAAS1I/ZIUCMrY8FvkQh9P46qC77s-VDDIQGS92QCLcB/s640/IMG085.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>More flowers, this one is the Indigo bush.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TQTN2YCnvEc/WRiXDyprBOI/AAAAAAAAS1M/gB6e5g61YVkx82I9_EdzcjpiQQFyrdDgQCLcB/s1600/IMG086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TQTN2YCnvEc/WRiXDyprBOI/AAAAAAAAS1M/gB6e5g61YVkx82I9_EdzcjpiQQFyrdDgQCLcB/s640/IMG086.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Full blooming brittle bush.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FOamPzQaZ0E/WRiXGegIqVI/AAAAAAAAS1Q/4SPSLI-RL08PU11ECsc07y7nLdgRaNExgCLcB/s1600/IMG087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FOamPzQaZ0E/WRiXGegIqVI/AAAAAAAAS1Q/4SPSLI-RL08PU11ECsc07y7nLdgRaNExgCLcB/s640/IMG087.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A small drainage built this delta fan along the trail. This is a small scale example of how the rapids form on the Colorado River, when side canyons deliver debris that partially constricts the river channel.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4CodIhP3cXE/WRiXJWeJJkI/AAAAAAAAS1U/Bdykjici1P4sl2uwV_sKIUR5rXZWtXciACLcB/s1600/IMG088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4CodIhP3cXE/WRiXJWeJJkI/AAAAAAAAS1U/Bdykjici1P4sl2uwV_sKIUR5rXZWtXciACLcB/s640/IMG088.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>View of the Chuar Group rocks in eastern Grand Canyon. This is the only locale where these rocks are found in the Grand Canyon and at 790 to 740 Ma, they are some of the few rocks from this age anywhere on planet Earth.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gtOY2fKXFsw/WRiXL1TaCGI/AAAAAAAAS1Y/JXCh8YzirhIrNX4B6yRff8-YRm1cNFEgACLcB/s1600/IMG089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gtOY2fKXFsw/WRiXL1TaCGI/AAAAAAAAS1Y/JXCh8YzirhIrNX4B6yRff8-YRm1cNFEgACLcB/s640/IMG089.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Finally, after entering Lava Chuar Canyon on the way back to the Colorado River, the route passes by some great exposures of the Dox Sandstone, part of the Unkar group and about 1,100 Ma.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DuEBA0lYOMY/WRiXMwYq5MI/AAAAAAAAS1c/W-djgTl58MIZZjv7URfsXN3Nz_Loor5MwCLcB/s1600/IMG090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DuEBA0lYOMY/WRiXMwYq5MI/AAAAAAAAS1c/W-djgTl58MIZZjv7URfsXN3Nz_Loor5MwCLcB/s640/IMG090.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>These well-preserved ripple marks were seen and are part of the Dox Sandstone.<br /><br />I will be headed back down the river this Friday for my third trip of the year and will post more by the end of the month.<br /><div></div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-77543916515592099422017-05-01T06:58:00.000-07:002017-05-01T06:58:02.585-07:00Spring Wildflowers and Rocks in Grand CanyonI recently completed an 11-day Hiking and Geology Special Rafting Trip in Grand Canyon with Colorado River and Trails Expeditions. The wildflowers this season are excellent. We did some great hikes in perfect conditions - 80 degree days and 50 degree nights.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01TWrKgNu0Q/WQcz6JoXmXI/AAAAAAAASyI/URyO4ySpZkoDtnprBKsf_uFwfuUaPWsUQCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01TWrKgNu0Q/WQcz6JoXmXI/AAAAAAAASyI/URyO4ySpZkoDtnprBKsf_uFwfuUaPWsUQCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver001.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Our first hike was up inside North Canyon, famous to geologists for it exfoliated sandstone surfaces.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oji3S1Ufdrk/WQcz6F8yePI/AAAAAAAASyM/mIby8WFXSEgIdLgoZ7FQdq3Vu7f1mg56ACLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oji3S1Ufdrk/WQcz6F8yePI/AAAAAAAASyM/mIby8WFXSEgIdLgoZ7FQdq3Vu7f1mg56ACLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>At the reflecting pool in the back of North Canyon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i895uh3G-BU/WQcz6XuxGHI/AAAAAAAASyQ/ZximD9mMeCcLZRGHbb53r9eX11zooDnSQCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i895uh3G-BU/WQcz6XuxGHI/AAAAAAAASyQ/ZximD9mMeCcLZRGHbb53r9eX11zooDnSQCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Note how the exfoliation planes mimic the shape of the open space in the canyon. As the canyon becomes progressively opened through this massive sandstone (massive meaning that it lacks significant bedding features or fractures and so behaves as a coherent substance), the sandstone in the walls "pops out" parallel to the shape of the open space. On the walls, the exfoliated planes are vertical but they turn to horizontal on the canyon floor. It makes for striking forms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2rTQ1qSqyis/WQcz669kNZI/AAAAAAAASyU/Z5rQJb-yx5geUsZqllRinNJyoSJBW3xngCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2rTQ1qSqyis/WQcz669kNZI/AAAAAAAASyU/Z5rQJb-yx5geUsZqllRinNJyoSJBW3xngCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Enjoying the solitude and stillness in a Grand Canyon tributary.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p_v1pV0Irfw/WQcz7Jja1_I/AAAAAAAASyc/EZD07efp5l0bUvS9ndeLVVlYu4McyK6awCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p_v1pV0Irfw/WQcz7Jja1_I/AAAAAAAASyc/EZD07efp5l0bUvS9ndeLVVlYu4McyK6awCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Dan enjoys looking at a conglomerate-filled channel that was cut into the underlying sandstone. Such channels are not uncommon in the Supai Group rocks. This happened in the Pennsylvanian Period, some 300 Ma.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XQtdtTRus_o/WQcz7plcQHI/AAAAAAAASyg/sICWM31DfzgOF7m2VqANpFnNnnEFuvbIwCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XQtdtTRus_o/WQcz7plcQHI/AAAAAAAASyg/sICWM31DfzgOF7m2VqANpFnNnnEFuvbIwCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Huge, cross-bedded sets of sandstone in there Supai Group in North Canyon. The cross-beds are very planar and might suggest a dune blowing across the floodplain.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oJ91brz8Dw8/WQcz7G_M4SI/AAAAAAAASyY/vZMwYin-vRI6hogzlvUpNVEqdeKu-fj3QCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oJ91brz8Dw8/WQcz7G_M4SI/AAAAAAAASyY/vZMwYin-vRI6hogzlvUpNVEqdeKu-fj3QCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We saw two Chuckwallas on the way back to the boats. I love the Latin name for this species, <i><a href="https://www.desertmuseum.org/books/nhsd_chuckwalla.php" target="_blank">(Sauromalus obesus)</a></i>, the "Big bad fat lizard."<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iOcTzX-Ru5E/WQcz77daYoI/AAAAAAAASyk/Gju4jKLtKY8tyVrm7MBLCGeybE4UcZftgCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iOcTzX-Ru5E/WQcz77daYoI/AAAAAAAASyk/Gju4jKLtKY8tyVrm7MBLCGeybE4UcZftgCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The second one was this little juvenile with its distinctive banded tail. Chuckwallas are strictly herbivorous.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_uQRW6HZQGc/WQcz8VqI1JI/AAAAAAAASys/BmEIDnGT_AocjAwWd8JlfOEDX-ME-tgxgCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_uQRW6HZQGc/WQcz8VqI1JI/AAAAAAAASys/BmEIDnGT_AocjAwWd8JlfOEDX-ME-tgxgCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Marble Canyon section of Grand Canyon has wonderful springs that issue from the Redwall Limestone. Here trip participants observe a travertine encrusted spring on the wall of the canyon. Maidenhair ferns&nbsp;<span style="font-family: &quot;times&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif;"><a href="http://www.arkive.org/maidenhair-fern/adiantum-capillus-veneris/" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; letter-spacing: 0.14000000059604645px;">(</span><em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; letter-spacing: 0.14000000059604645px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Adiantum capillus-veneris</em></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; letter-spacing: 0.14000000059604645px;"><a href="http://www.arkive.org/maidenhair-fern/adiantum-capillus-veneris/" target="_blank">)</a> and Golden columbines<a href="https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=AQCH" target="_blank"> <i>(Aquilegia chrysantha)</i></a> are often growing at these sites.</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;times&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; letter-spacing: 0.14000000059604645px;"><br /></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Cp6uvm4E1M/WQcz8x9YBmI/AAAAAAAASyw/Aix2TfUvjecfmy6yMkA7gty_6fBXDv_2wCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Cp6uvm4E1M/WQcz8x9YBmI/AAAAAAAASyw/Aix2TfUvjecfmy6yMkA7gty_6fBXDv_2wCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Inside Redbud Alcove at River Mile 39.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu8W-ZH3gqw/WQcz9QcRioI/AAAAAAAASy4/s0OaUiCTcBwA6GSoAzba8dAnqJ_avxI-gCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu8W-ZH3gqw/WQcz9QcRioI/AAAAAAAASy4/s0OaUiCTcBwA6GSoAzba8dAnqJ_avxI-gCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Slopes covered in yellow brittlebush <i><a href="https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Brittlebush.php" target="_blank">(Encelia farinosa)</a></i>&nbsp;downstream from the Eminence Break at River Mile 44.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dllhImeNUZQ/WQcz9f30G5I/AAAAAAAASy0/LcQGehfjU30muZvOyCqUXJRp3vBpPO5FQCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dllhImeNUZQ/WQcz9f30G5I/AAAAAAAASy0/LcQGehfjU30muZvOyCqUXJRp3vBpPO5FQCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Sedesrt globe mallow <i><a href="http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=spam2" target="_blank">(Sphaeralcea ambigua)</a></i>&nbsp;was just beginning to bloom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Njiu-JLRhY/WQcz9jqVUhI/AAAAAAAASy8/MIVgkN9hF7Q11bXS_GFLBxPEjt_5z5p5ACLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Njiu-JLRhY/WQcz9jqVUhI/AAAAAAAASy8/MIVgkN9hF7Q11bXS_GFLBxPEjt_5z5p5ACLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Desert fleabane <i><a href="http://southwestdesertflora.com/WebsiteFolders/All_Species/Asteraceae/Erigeron_divergens.html" target="_blank">(Erigeron divergens)</a>&nbsp;</i>was found up in Saddle Canyon at River Mile 46.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5cKI92xB9Y/WQcz-tYsGDI/AAAAAAAASzE/-uYE_T_joTYhllNyyimAiGElrQQSiP-7QCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5cKI92xB9Y/WQcz-tYsGDI/AAAAAAAASzE/-uYE_T_joTYhllNyyimAiGElrQQSiP-7QCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>A typical day on the boats below Nankoweap Canyon. Both oar-powered trips and motor-powered trips have pluses and minuses. I used to strictly use oar-powered craft but have now switched to motor-powered. There are numerous reasons why and you'll just have to come on one of my trips to find out why.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4vQEJQtFbYE/WQcz-KFcbxI/AAAAAAAASzA/tnTAh0-cvewNIR2bHg73gdjq4E6LTUW2QCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4vQEJQtFbYE/WQcz-KFcbxI/AAAAAAAASzA/tnTAh0-cvewNIR2bHg73gdjq4E6LTUW2QCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Engelman hedgehog cactus<i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echinocereus_engelmannii" target="_blank"> (Echinocereous engelmanni)</a></i> at the confluence of the Little and Big Colorado rivers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdQNxgdHb2U/WQcz-qknV9I/AAAAAAAASzI/geAU1SLgfrg92KqmHbAURBTLHUSyH_ryQCLcB/s1600/Hiking%2BRiver017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdQNxgdHb2U/WQcz-qknV9I/AAAAAAAASzI/geAU1SLgfrg92KqmHbAURBTLHUSyH_ryQCLcB/s640/Hiking%2BRiver017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Imagine 10,000 people a day coming down from the point on the skyline in a tramway. No way!<br /><br />Part 2 to follow later in the week.Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-903840939755616052017-04-16T08:41:00.001-07:002017-04-16T08:41:08.468-07:00Landslide in Alaska's Taan Fjord<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mDWSA2_jmbw/WPN4dlcOfiI/AAAAAAAASvc/PaWvqDpS_dIkAYsQ2dMvj84VuDf1184iwCEw/s1600/image002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mDWSA2_jmbw/WPN4dlcOfiI/AAAAAAAASvc/PaWvqDpS_dIkAYsQ2dMvj84VuDf1184iwCEw/s640/image002.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ground view of the landslide scar in Taan Fjord.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In October, 2015, the land gave way in a remote Alaskan fjord letting loose 200 million tons of rock. When the rock entered the sea, it sent a wave 600 feet high up onto the other side. No one saw it, except those monitoring a seismograph at Columbia University in New York. You can read an article about the event <a href="http://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/landslide-alaska-taan-fjord-2015">here</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pjgm_0e_sOY/WPN4dvWjKRI/AAAAAAAASvg/vRy2pkzxC3cVA7ljsLgcw_mQ7kQUmwpGACLcB/s1600/image001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="538" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pjgm_0e_sOY/WPN4dvWjKRI/AAAAAAAASvg/vRy2pkzxC3cVA7ljsLgcw_mQ7kQUmwpGACLcB/s640/image001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the landslide scar at the head or the fjord to the left of the glacier.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19032021.post-60912512847357087542017-04-13T07:42:00.002-07:002017-04-13T07:42:31.554-07:00Giant Paleoburrows in South America Thought to be Dug by Ground Sloths<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-osu_HAd5v4E/WO-Hn90xwUI/AAAAAAAASto/himWiejrjLs4w58rykwxGBWPFqzzo1vUACLcB/s1600/paleoburrow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-osu_HAd5v4E/WO-Hn90xwUI/AAAAAAAASto/himWiejrjLs4w58rykwxGBWPFqzzo1vUACLcB/s640/paleoburrow1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Discover Magazine is reporting on giant paleoburrows that have been identified in the Amazon Basin in South America. The burrows are thought to have been excavated by Ice Age megafauna.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bkmHDfW3jHI/WO-HuG4vWWI/AAAAAAAASts/ny4WCMGIRdoLFAlEWlTgkMSPx17S6R2HwCLcB/s1600/Galerias-paleotoca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bkmHDfW3jHI/WO-HuG4vWWI/AAAAAAAASts/ny4WCMGIRdoLFAlEWlTgkMSPx17S6R2HwCLcB/s640/Galerias-paleotoca.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>The morphology of the caves as well as the youthful nature of the material they are found in, suggests that they were dug perhaps by giant ground sloths or giant armadillos. The full article in Discover Magazine can be read&nbsp;<a href="http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/crux/2017/03/28/paleoburrows-south-america/#.WO-FSFLMyRv" target="_blank">here</a>. (The images I have included in this post are from the article).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--cdOdTE3NcU/WO-H0xhscbI/AAAAAAAAStw/djX0pqaQCScNpIpiaP93BkOMy6w8p7Y2ACLcB/s1600/paleoburrow-digging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--cdOdTE3NcU/WO-H0xhscbI/AAAAAAAAStw/djX0pqaQCScNpIpiaP93BkOMy6w8p7Y2ACLcB/s640/paleoburrow-digging.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>Researchers note that these paleoburrows have been also identified from the southern Brazilian states of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, but not across the border in Uruguay. They also have not been identified north of the Amazon. Now some are beginning to wonder if they simply have not been recognized, although a lack of suitable rock type or the distribution of species could also explain their absence elsewhere.Wayne Ranneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571579037328414935noreply@blogger.com0